TeachWell

Approximately half of the 700,000 refugees living in Kenya’s Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps are children. Yet, access to learning opportunities in these camps is extremely limited. Conflict, displacement and lack of resources create significant barriers, leaving many children without the chance to learn and thrive.

The TeachWell program bridges this gap by bringing education directly to refugee and host community children. Using a learning through play approach, TeachWell reaches children with inclusive learning experiences—even in the most challenging environments—so every child can build skills, confidence and hope for the future.

From infancy, children have an innate ability to learn about their surroundings through play. For children in refugee and host communities—many of whom have had their education and social development disrupted by crisis—play offers more than enjoyment. It creates a safe, positive and inclusive environment where children feel comfortable, engaged and joyful.

Learning through play is a cornerstone of the TeachWell program. Evidence shows that this approach strengthens socio-emotional skills and improves overall well-being, particularly for children facing adversity.

TeachWell builds on the success of the PlayMatters and Play Well programs, which have successfully implemented learning through play approaches in Uganda, Ethiopia and Tanzania. 

Skilled, confident teachers play a critical role in motivating learners, building their self-esteem, and helping them succeed academically and emotionally. However, many teachers in Kenya—particularly in refugee-hosting communities—face immense challenges,

Many have been displaced and must contend with the additional pressures of climate shocks, conflict and poverty. Overcrowded classrooms, scarce resources, and limited access to professional development further hinder effective teaching and learning.

TeachWell addresses these gaps by providing two targeted training and professional growth opportunities:

Teacher Continuous Capacity: Over 350 educators have been trained in child-centered teaching methods that make learning more engaging and supportive.

Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DPTE): More than 300 refugee teachers are advancing their academic qualifications—taking steps toward a teaching degree and long-term career stability.

Children need access to safe and healthy environments to learn effectively. TeachWell strengthens schools in Kenya’s refugee-hosting communities by improving access to clean water and sanitation, supporting mental health and psychosocial well-being, and enhancing school infrastructure to better withstand emergencies such as floods, droughts and conflict.