A student during an online class at Koa Academy./HANDOUTOnline schooling is emerging as a serious alternative to classroom learning in Kenya as families reassess how and where education happens.
New research and programme details from Koa Academy Kenya show growing interest in digital learning, alongside deep hesitation rooted in past experience.
Research conducted by Koa Academy indicates that while 80 per cent of Kenyan parents are aware of online education options, only nine per cent have enrolled their children.
Many still associate online learning with “unstructured Covid-era emergency learning” and view it as “isolating and inconsistent rather than a viable full-time option.”
Kenya, however, is seen as well-positioned for online schooling.
Kenya is at a critical juncture where educational technology (EdTech) platforms, digital textbooks, and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered content curation can be used to overcome long-standing barriers to quality education and learning accessibility challenges, such as limited resources, digital illiteracy, and infrastructure gaps.
High smartphone usage among youth, expanding internet access, and familiarity with digital platforms are driving conditions similar to those fueling a global online education market projected to exceed $200 billion by 2026.
Koa Academy says its model directly addresses credibility and structure, two concerns that continue to shape parental decision-making.
The school operates as a full-time online institution, placing learners in small classes of eight students known as Pods, each guided by a dedicated Pod Teacher.
Lessons are delivered live, combined with independent coursework, while maintaining consistent academic oversight and peer interaction.
“At Koa Academy, we address this with our small Pods of eight students, enabling real-time discussions, group problem-solving, and teacher facilitation, creating a highly engaged learning environment where students participate consistently and meaningfully,” said Mark Anderson, Koa Academy’s co-founder and principal.
He added: “Our small Pods create space for real connection, where classmates get to know each other well and work together daily, removing anonymity and increasing accountability.”
Social isolation remains one of the top concerns around online schooling. Koa says its approach ensures daily peer interaction, ongoing feedback, and consistent teacher presence.
Beyond lessons, the school also runs online clubs, Nairobi meetups, and educational outings to build a sense of community.
“Beyond lessons, online clubs, Nairobi meetups, and educational outings help students build friendships and a genuine sense of community, with belonging and engagement intentionally built into the learning experience,” Anderson said.
Teachers are able to offer personalised attention and encourage participation, with regular check-ins to ensure every student stays on track and feels supported.
“Our teachers use these insights to step in quickly when support is needed—and parents can easily stay up to date with how their child is progressing,” notes Anderson.
"This combination of structure, personalised support, and accountability keeps students focused, engaged, and motivated."
Koa delivers the International Secondary Certificate, developed by the Independent Examinations Board and benchmarked against UK A Levels.
The curriculum provides pathways to universities in Africa and internationally.
In South Africa, the school has recorded a 98 per cent Grade 12 pass rate, evidence it says shows that “a well-designed online schooling model can deliver rigorous results.”
The school also seeks to reduce pressure on parents. Teaching and academic guidance are teacher-led, with students following set timetables and live sessions. Parents are not required to take on a teaching role during the school day, a practical concern identified in the research
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