New Dean of Academics

Daraja Academy is saying goodbye to Charles Mbuto (Mr. C) who has served as Dean of Academics for the last 10 years, but biology teacher Mercy Gichohi is ready to take the reins. While the girls will miss Mr. C as he goes onto new endeavors, Teacher Mercy will continue to inspire hard work and excellence. Read our exclusive interview to learn a little more about this powerful woman leader and her plans for Daraja Academy.

What did you think you were going to be growing up?
I didn’t think I would be a Dean of Academics! I didn’t even think I would be a teacher. I have a training background in research. But when I couldn’t find any jobs in that field, I started to reconsider my decisions. I was teaching well, so I decided to grow my passion in teaching.

Why have you chosen girls education?
When you empower a girl, you empower a nation. Women are spheres of influence in their communities and in their countries. We are able to share what we have with every person we come across. For me, if I train a girl, I know that girl will impact several generations.

What is your favorite part about being a teacher?
Seeing students excel in life after they pass through my hands—that is my greatest achievement.

What does a Dean of Academics do?
The Dean of Academics is the manager of academics in the school. My position entails organizing academics with the students and teachers, and bringing all stakeholders onboard with a mind of making our results improve day after day. I hope to make Daraja shine in academics. I have great passion as a teacher, and I believe in excellence in all that I do. I am looking forward to having a school that will be the center of excellence in academics, in culture, in discipline.

What are you most excited for as the Dean of Academics?
I am most excited to change the vibe of academics. It takes excited teachers to teach well and excited students to learn well. I am committed to bringing that excitement to Daraja. That is the only way we will get results. I want to thank Jenni, Jason, and Victoria for believing in me—and the board members for giving me this opportunity. I promise to do my best.

In your opinion, what makes Daraja special?
Daraja is special because we bring in girls from different parts of Kenya and create for them a home that is a conducive environment for growing up and learning. We are also able to interact with different people from nations all over the world. We are like a small global village.