In the heart of Nairobi’s Kariokor neighborhood, Starehe Boys’ center and School is
hard to miss. It’s an academic giant and a landmark. Founded in 1959 by Dr. Geoffrey
Griffin, Mr. Joseph Kamiru Gikubu and Mr.Geoffrey Gatama Geturo, the school has
lived upto its billing of being a citadel of knowledge for bright but economically
disadvantaged students. Under the stewardship of Mr. Fred Okono, the Director of
Starehe Boys’ Centre and School, Starehe continues to thrive, cementing its reputation
as one of Kenya’s most prestigious institutions.
Mr. Fred Okono, who took over as Director in 2023, has brought renewed energy to Starehe’s mission of providing quality education to bright but financially disadvantaged boys. With over two decades of
experience in education and leadership, Mr. Okono has championed initiatives that
blend academic rigor with character development, ensuring students excel not only in
exams but also as responsible citizens.
Mr. Okono is a tested hand at Starehe Boys’ Center and School, where he previously
served as personal assistant to Mr. Gikubu, senior master Form II, assistant director
(Administration), assistant director (Tertiary Education) and dean of the Technical
Training Institute.
Under his leadership, Starehe has maintained its stellar performance in national exams,
with many alumni securing scholarships to top universities across the world. But for Mr.
Okono, success is not just about grades—it’s about molding well-rounded individuals.
One of the director’s key achievements has been expanding access to education for
underprivileged students. Through partnerships with NGOs and corporate sponsors, he
has strengthened the school’s scholarship program, ensuring that no deserving student
is turned away due to financial constraints.
“At Starehe, we believe in nurturing talent regardless of background. Our goal is to
produce leaders who will drive positive change in Kenya and beyond,” he says.
Recognizing the evolving demands of the 21st century, Starehe has introduced modern
teaching methods, including digital learning tools, while maintaining Starehe’s tradition
of discipline and moral integrity. His leadership has also seen infrastructural upgrades,
including renovated dormitories and revamped science labs.
Respected Mentor
Beyond administrative duties, Mr. Okono is a mentor to both students and staff. Former
students often speak of his unwavering support and fatherly guidance. “Mr. Okono
doesn’t just run a school; he builds futures,” said one alumnus now studying
engineering abroad.
The Starehe way
Starehe Boys’ Center and School is built on the foundational principles of community service, trust, and
self-leadership. Focused on shaping the future leaders needed by Kenya and the wider world, the Centre
prioritizes character building and holistic development of the individual. This is alongside consistent
exemplary academic performance. Starehe instills students with the skills and values to transform
themselves and the wider society.
Looking Ahead
Known for its legacy of academic excellence and leadership development, Starehe has
set high academic standards nationally for many years. After a slight dip in academic
performance in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education exams, Starehe Boys’
Center and School has now bounced back to its former glory.
In the 2024 KCSE results, Starehe Boys Centre recorded a mean score of
10.1116, with all but one of its students achieving university entry grades. As
Starehe Boys Centre & School continues to set benchmarks in the Kenyan education
sector, Mr. Okono remains focused on his vision: a school that not only produces top
scholars but also compassionate leaders. His work stands as a testament to the
transformative power of education.
