Story by Cornelius Kimbui for The County Champion

Earlybird Schools held a colourful and historic Cultural Day on Friday July 5th 2024. The event was held at Mumbuni kindergarten, Eastleigh Kindergarten and the Primary School at Kathome, Machakos County.

The learners performed various traditional dances showcasing traditional attire and shared cultural food. School Principal Mr. James Kyalo said the event provided a learning platform for learners to appreciate their diverse cultures through traditional songs, dances, clothing and food.

Mr. Kyalo said Earlybird Schools believes in the power of music to inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster teamwork.

The event was a celebration of multiculturalism uniting the school fraternity and the community through cultural performances, delicious food and various cultural attires Earlybird’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity within the institution was front and center, creating an inclusive and harmonious atmosphere that values the rich tapestry of cultures represented. This was achieved through the learners and members of staff in each session of the activities.

The cultural performances took us on a journey through the traditions of the various communities represented. These performances brought to life the essence of the multi- cultural society, highlighting the beauty and diversity that make Earlybird Schools truly unique.

Chief Guest, Nzioki Nzomo from department of Culture. Machakos County congratulated the school for the historic event.

Mr. Nzomo challenged other schools to promote the diverse Kenyan cultures among students by including cultural events in the school. He said cultural days in schools gives an opportunity to celebrate the diversity that exists within the community. He said it also offers a great opportunity to deepen social awareness and understanding by celebrating the world’s cultural richness beyond your immediate community.

“We must think of children as participants in, and carriers of our culture, as they are a critical part of our population-the future of our societies. Culture broadly refers to a group’s shared attitudes, traditions, beliefs and practices that are transmitted across generations” he said.

Culture shapes experiences and influences children’s development, cultural back- ground gives them a sense of who they are.

The unique cultural influences children respond to from birth, including customs and beliefs around food, artistic expression, language, and religion, affect the way they develop emotionally, socially, physically, and linguistically.