Thika-based Chania Girls High School has been renamed to M.P. Shah Chania Girls in honor of its founder Meghji Pethraj Shah (M. P. Shah) who was a businessman and philanthropist.
The school was formerly known as MP Shah High School from its inception in 1962 until 1967 when it was renamed Chania High School.
It used to have both girls and boys, both of whom could board at the school or commute to school every day and the only institution in Thika that served a wide range of students from a diverse cultural, racial, ethnic and religious background.
The school split in 2000 to Chania Boys' High School and Chania Girls' High School to serve boys and girls, respectively.
Its establishment was envisioned to empower young women through quality education and has grown to become a cornerstone of education for girls in the region, fostering an environment that encourages personal growth, leadership, and critical thinking.
The school Principal Mary Mwangi, who spoke during the official renaming of the school on Tuesday, noted that the Shah family has been pivotal to infrastructural growth in the institution.
She pointed out the recent construction of two modern classrooms and an ablution block that has significantly eased congestion and provided a conducive learning environment for learners.
“We believe in partnerships and collaborations to develop our institution and help boost academic performance of our students. With help from stakeholders and the community like the Shah family, we have adequate resources that will ultimately see our results improve significantly,” Mwangi said.
Mwangi who was accompanied by the school’s board members, at the same time revealed that the institution is set to benefit with a borehole drilled by the Kenya Defence Forces, Thika Barracks.
She termed the project as a shot-in-the-arm for the school as it was grappling with acute water shortage caused by frequent rationing by the area water service provider.
“The borehole will ensure that we have an all-time flow of water in our taps for the sake of our sanitation,” she said.
She also reiterated that all stakeholders are committed to providing a well-rounded education that not only focuses on academic achievements but also emphasizes the importance of character development and social responsibility.
“We aim to prepare our students for the challenges of the future by equipping them with essential skills and values. The school places a strong emphasis on both sciences and humanities, ensuring that girls receive a comprehensive understanding of various disciplines.
This balanced approach to education helps students discover their passions and talents, paving the way for future academic and career successes,” Mwangi said.
Binoy Meghraj while unveiling the new name said that the Shah family will continue providing financial assistance for the school’s infrastructural development so as to effectively accommodate the high number of students.
“This school stands as a beacon of educational excellence, inspiring young women to aim high and pursue their dreams. Its legacy continues to thrive as it shapes the future of countless girls in Thika and beyond. We will continue collaborating and offering our support,” Meghraj said.