Moi Forces Academy-Lanet first girls' school to offer Aviation Technology

Moi Forces Academy-Lanet has officially become the first national girls' school in Kenya to offer Aviation Technology, setting a new precedent in the country’s education sector and opening up skies of opportunity for young women.

The school unveiled a fully operational training aircraft, which will provide learners with practical experience alongside theoretical instruction.

Moi Forces Academy-Lanet now joins a small but growing number of Kenyan schools introducing Aviation Technology.

Starehe Boys’ Centre and Mang’u High School, both with a long history of technical education, have previously integrated aviation studies into their curricula—though only for boys.

The introduction of the subject in an all-girls national school marks a significant step forward in addressing gender disparities in technical education.

In a colourful ceremony held on May 10, 2025, and themed “Demystifying Aviation,” over  50 students were introduced to the subject that promises hands-on skills in aeronautical engineering, aviation security, and air traffic control.

Lieutenant General David Tarus, Commander of the Kenya Army and Chairperson of the school's Board of Management said this will go a long way in enhancing technology to learners as CBC takes root in senior schools.

“This is more than just a subject. It is a gateway to transformative, high-impact careers in the aviation industry,” he said.

Also in attendance was Major General Fatuma Ahmed, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, who underscored the broader impact of such opportunities for girls.

“Aviation Technology is a critical skill area. It is encouraging to see young women being given the tools and exposure needed to take up space in this highly specialised field,” she said.

Major Ahmend said as CBC implementation continues, Moi Forces Academy-Lanet’s bold step could inspire other schools across the country to take flight—literally and figuratively—in equipping girls for the skies.

The milestone is aligned with Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which is currently transitioning the education system away from the 8-4-4 model.

Aviation Technology is one of 40 new subjects proposed by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) under the upcoming Senior Secondary School (SSS) framework.

From 2026, students in Grade 10 will begin selecting subjects based on interests and career goals, with emphasis on STEM fields.

Mary Njogu, the school’s Chief Principal, praised the Kenya Defence Forces for their ongoing support in making the program a reality.

“This subject is already inspiring our students and setting them on a path to exciting careers in aviation. We are grateful to the KDF leadership for their continued partnership,” she said.

She further lauded the initiative, noting it not only complements CBC’s career-pathway approach but also signals a shift in societal attitudes about who belongs in STEM fields.

“The inclusion of girls in Aviation Technology will not only shatter long-held stereotypes but also lead to a more inclusive and dynamic workforce,” said Njogu.

 “This is the beginning of a new era,” said an elated student, visibly excited after inspecting the aircraft. “I want to become a pilot, and now it feels real.”