🌟 Alumni Spotlight
A Pioneer in Deaf Education and Sign Language Advocacy
Osano Keens
Regional Coordinator - Nyanza, Western Kenya & North Rift
Kenya National Association of the Deaf (KNAD)
About Osano
Osano Keens holds a historic place in the story of Kuja Primary School for the Deaf. He was the first student to enroll at Kuja School in 1976, marking the beginning of a legacy of excellence and resilience. He completed his primary education and made history as the first Deaf student to sit for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination.
He then pursued his secondary education at Kanga High School under the integration program, breaking barriers and paving the way for other Deaf learners to access mainstream education.
Currently, Osano serves as the Regional Coordinator for Nyanza, Western Kenya, and North Rift Regions at the Kenya National Association of the Deaf (KNAD). In this role, he coordinates programmes and advocates for the rights and welfare of Deaf persons across these regions.
🏆 Key Achievements
- First student of Kuja Primary School for the Deaf (1976)
- First Deaf student to sit for KCPE examination
- Studied at Kanga High School under the integration program
- Regional Coordinator - KNAD (Nyanza, Western, North Rift)
- Civic Education Provider for Siaya County during the Orange and Banana groups advocacy
- Lobbied for Sign Language as an examinable subject in KCPE and KCSE
- Drafted Sign Language legislation recently passed by Parliament
📚 Education & Qualifications
- Kuja Primary School for the Deaf (First Student, 1976)
- First Deaf KCPE Candidate
- Kanga High School - Integration Program
- Sign Language Policy and Legislation Expert
📢 Sign Language Advocacy
Osano Keens has been a tireless advocate for the recognition and development of Kenyan Sign Language (KSL). He played a pivotal role in lobbying the government to accept Sign Language as an examinable subject within both KCPE and KCSE. His efforts contributed significantly to the recent passing of Sign Language legislation by Parliament, marking a historic milestone for the Deaf community in Kenya. He looks forward to the continued development and growth of Sign Language across the country.
"Kuja School gave me the foundation to break barriers and advocate for the Deaf community. The journey from being the first student to seeing Sign Language become law has been incredible. I am proud to have paved the way for many others to follow."
A Pioneer and Role Model
Osano Keens stands as a legendary figure in the history of Kuja School and the Deaf community in Kenya. As the first student of Kuja School and the first Deaf KCPE candidate, he opened doors that many thought were closed. His lifelong advocacy for Kenyan Sign Language has transformed the educational landscape for Deaf learners. Today, he continues to inspire current learners to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams, and fight for their rights. His legacy is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the belief that ability is greater than disability.