One of Kennya’s international school of elite, GEMS Cambridge International School, owned by a Dubai-based group, is reported to be closing after six operational years in Kenya.
The school, located along Magadi Road, was built at cost of Ksh3 billion by a separate developer and the management has therefore been paying Ksh200 million in annual rent.
The move, which is seen as a cost-cutting strategy, will see GEMS’ 200 students transfer to Hillcrest International School.
Hillcrest International School was also acquired by the Dubai-based investors at a cost of Ksh1.5 billion and has a student population of 1000. GEMS and Hillcrest are among Kenya’s most prestigious and expensive schools, scoring numbers 6 and 8 respectively with both charging millions in fees.
In February 2019, GEMS fired 10 senior managers as they were declared redundant. The news about the closure has sent shivers down employees of the school because they are now uncertain of their future.
In 2015, the institution had designated Kenya as its headquarters for Africa operations, with plans to set up additional schools in Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria.
The school boasts amenities such as a half Olympic-size swimming pool, a 400m all-weather running track, cricket nets and playing fields which complement the indoor sports arena and a multi-purpose hall that includes a drama and dance studio.
GEMS has had strategic partnerships with Foundations of former US President Bill Clinton, Tony Blair, Bill Gates, and the World Economic Forum.