In a groundbreaking move for aviation education in Africa, Kenya Airways has donated a decommissioned Boeing 737-700 Next Generation (NG) aircraft to Mang’u High School. This initiative is the first of its kind on the continent and aims to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and aviation learning among high school students.
The aircraft was officially handed over on January 13, 2025, following a comprehensive inspection and acceptance process by Mang’u High School representatives in 2023. The donation marks a major step forward in enhancing technical education at the secondary school level.
Kenya Airways’ Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Hellen Mathuka, spoke at the flag-off ceremony, saying, “This aircraft, which once connected people and destinations across the globe, is now being repurposed as an educational platform. At Mang’u High School, it will function as a hands-on classroom, equipping students with essential skills and knowledge for careers in aviation, engineering, and related fields.”
The school already has an aviation program featuring a smaller caravan aircraft. The addition of the Boeing 737-700 NG significantly strengthens this program, providing students with real-life exposure to aircraft systems and operations.
Anthony Maina Mithanga, Chairman of Mang’u High School, hailed the donation as a transformative development. “This aircraft will serve as a powerful educational resource and motivational tool,” he stated. “It embodies the belief that ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’ and it will inspire our students to pursue ambitious goals in aviation and beyond.”
The successful delivery and installation of the aircraft have been made possible through a partnership between Kenya Airways, the KCB Foundation, Crown Paints, and technical support from Bonafide Group and Kenya Airways engineers. Once reassembled on school grounds, the plane will serve as a hands-on learning facility for exploring aviation systems, procedures, and technologies in a practical setting.
Kenya Airways also engages with students through educational tours at its Embakasi hub, where young learners meet industry professionals such as pilots and engineers. These initiatives aim to bridge the skills gap in Africa’s aviation sector by encouraging more students to consider careers in aviation.
Notably, Mang’u High School has a strong legacy of contributing talent to the airline, with over 40 pilots and more than 20 aeronautical and aerospace engineers among Kenya Airways’ alumni network.
