In an inspiring display of innovation and teamwork, a group of Grade 9 students at Sun and Shield Primary & Junior School have taken a bold step into the digital world—by building a custom school management system for their institution.
The group, known as VAST, is a youth-led startup composed of tech-savvy, entrepreneurial learners passionate about solving real-world problems through technology.
A Student Team with a Vision
The VAST team comprises ten determined students: Emmanuel Awan, Warren Letangule, Darren Kimosop, Ruth Nakhumicha, Losutan Kibet, Jeriel Kipchumba, Lesley Chelangat, Ezra Kibet, Ruth Jebichii, and their teacher mentor, Mr. Ndung’u J.M.
Despite still being in Grade 9, the students behind VAST have taught themselves how to design apps and websites. With knowledge in programming, business, and problem-solving, they set out to apply their skills by improving something close to home—the daily operations of their school.
Recognizing the limitations of traditional paper-based systems, VAST began developing a digital school management app designed to streamline operations at Sun and Shield Primary & Junior School.
Although still under development, the app is expected to support key functions such as:
- Digital class timetables
- Online access to student results
- Communication between teachers, parents, and students
- Storage of academic records
- Instant school-wide announcements and alerts
This is VAST’s first official project, and it’s already generating excitement within the school community.
“We wanted to do something real—not just for practice, but something that could actually help the school,” shared one team member. “This system will save time, reduce paper use, and improve communication. It’s all about making the school smarter and more connected.”
Though VAST is not yet a registered company, it operates like one—with assigned roles, project timelines, and regular collaboration sessions. The students handle everything themselves—from designing the interface to building the database that powers the platform.
Like any real-world project, the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. The team has encountered:
- Limited resources
- The challenge of balancing schoolwork with development
- Lack of access to advanced tools used by professional developers
- Limited support and funding within the school community
Once launched, Sun and Shield Primary & Junior School will become one of the few institutions in the region to implement a custom-built digital system developed entirely in-house—by its students.
The project is not only a tool for better school management but also a creative outlet that allows students to explore digital innovation and showcase their talents.
The platform promises:
- Faster and clearer communication
- Easy access to timetables and academic reports
- Better organization of school records
- A strong foundation for future digital initiatives
With this project, the students behind VAST aren’t just building software—they’re shaping a future where Kenyan schools can embrace digital transformation, one innovative step at a time.
At Sun and Shield Primary & Junior School, we are proud to see our students take the lead in solving real-world problems and using their talents to make a lasting impact. Their journey with VAST reminds us all that the future isn’t just ahead of us—it’s already happening in our classrooms.
Contact the VAST Team:
