Academy Expands to Serve More Students

Posted by Spalding Hurst

January 14, 2026

St. Francis Assisi Academy in Marereni has served students through grade three for several years. Since the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth began their ministry at the school, the long-term goal has been to expand it into a full primary school through grade six.

In 2024, with the support of a volunteer group from Malta, the Diocese of Malindi constructed an additional classroom. This made it possible for the school to open grade four.

In 2025, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth committed to continuing the expansion by constructing a new school building. The two-story structure includes a principal’s office, staff room, and conference room on the ground floor. The first floor is designed to hold three classrooms.

Because of limited funding, construction is taking place in two phases. The ground floor was completed at the end of December 2025, along with the basic structure and terrace for the first floor.

On Jan. 9, 2026, Bishop Willybard Lagho of the Diocese of Malindi blessed the completed ground floor. When the school reopened later that month, grade five students began using the conference room as a temporary classroom. They will remain there until the first-floor classrooms are completed, which is expected by the end of 2026 if additional funds become available.

Teaching With Care at St. Francis

The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Kenya, along with the students and residents of Marereni, express deep gratitude to supporters in the United States. This support is creating new opportunities for children and strengthening the future of the community.

The Sisters in Kenya offer sincere thanks to all who made this progress possible.

2 Comments

  1. Nalini

    How wonderful for the students to have the space to study. God bless all those who contributed for the construction of the school building. May the students study and grow in wisdom and knowledge.

    Reply
    • Sr. Luke

      Awesome! Congratulations on your expansion of the school. I am so very proud of your hard work!
      Luke

      Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like…

Sister Mukta Advocates for Migrant Workers

Sister Mukta Advocates for Migrant Workers

Sister Mukta Marandi urged stronger legal protections for migrant workers during a regional gathering in Burdwan, West Bengal. She encouraged greater knowledge of labor laws and access to benefits, compensation and emergency assistance as dioceses plan Migrant Resource Centers across Bengal and Sikkim in India.

“I See Your Goodness And Value Your Service”

“I See Your Goodness And Value Your Service”

Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Indian festival that celebrates the bond of love, care, respect, and protection between brothers and sisters. On this day, a sister traditionally ties a rakhi (a sacred or decorative thread) around her brother’s wrist. In return, the brother expresses his love and commitment to care for and support her. Gifts and sweets are also commonly exchanged.

This beautiful tradition was creatively and meaningfully celebrated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Vasai.

Sister Rose Plathottathil Visits Nazareth

Sister Rose Plathottathil Visits Nazareth

Sister Rose Plathottathil, second from right, visited Nazareth today while traveling in the United States with family. After attending events in Minneapolis, she stopped at the Motherhouse on her way to Houston, Texas, with her brother and niece. Sister Rose serves in Rajgir, overseeing a hostel for children.