Adapting Proven Approaches: From Evidence to Scale – Adapting Nia Learning for Gender Equity and Inclusion in Kenya’s ASAL Contexts

This one-pager summarizes key findings and recommendations from a study conducted by ZanaAfrica, Education Design Unlimited, and Dignitas with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Global Partnership for Education Knowledge and Innovation Exchange (GPE KIX). The study examined how the Nia Learning model—an approach that integrates gender-responsive education with socio-emotional well-being—can be adapted for arid, semi-arid, and refugee-hosting contexts in Kenya, specifically in Turkana and Garissa counties.

Drawing on insights from 1,074 participants across 20 schools, the brief highlights the critical role of school leadership, socio-emotional well-being, and community engagement in creating safe and inclusive learning environments. It also outlines practical recommendations for practitioners, education systems, and funders on how to support sustainable scale through locally adapted approaches, coaching structures, and long-term investment in gender-responsive and inclusive education.