Nairobi, Kenya – March 29, 2026 — The Sunrise Virtual School hosted a vibrant and impactful “Come As You Will Be Day” at the ASK Jamhuri Showground, bringing together students, parents, educators, and stakeholders for a day of inspiration, reflection, and celebration of future possibilities.
The event highlighted the school’s pioneering role as Kenya’s first fully virtual learning institution, drawing learners from across the country and beyond. It also provided a platform for dialogue on the future of education, careers, and the importance of character in shaping professional success.
Delivering the keynote address as Guest of Honour, Daniel Juma Omondi, Africa Regional Representative of the Global Peace Foundation, challenged learners, parents, and educators to rethink the purpose of education in a rapidly evolving world. Speaking on the theme “Careers of the Future & Why Character Will Remain Central to Professional Success,” he emphasized that while academic excellence remains important, it is no longer sufficient on its own.
He noted that the traditional model of education—focused primarily on grades and certification—must give way to a more holistic approach that integrates character, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. Drawing from his work in peacebuilding, he underscored that education is a powerful tool for fostering social cohesion, ethical leadership, and sustainable development.
Omondi outlined four key dimensions of holistic education: the mental cognitive, moral and spiritual, relational and emotional, and physical vitality. He stressed that character, built on integrity and values, must form the foundation upon which all other competencies are developed. Referencing trends among Fortune 500 companies, he observed that many global employers are increasingly prioritizing skills, adaptability, and integrity over academic credentials alone.
“Employers today are not just looking at what you know—they are looking at who you are,” he said, adding that skills can be taught, but character is cultivated over time through intentional guidance from parents and educators.
He further highlighted a strategic partnership between Sunrise Virtual School and WorkforceReadiness.ac, a program designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping learners with practical workplace competencies, professional ethics, and real-world readiness. He encouraged students to enroll in the certification as a way of enhancing their employability in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion involving educators, industry professionals, and stakeholders who explored the future of work, digital learning, and the skills required to thrive in a technology-driven world. Panelists emphasized the growing importance of lifelong learning, creativity, collaboration, and ethical leadership. There was a strong consensus that education systems must become more flexible and responsive to global trends, while still grounding learners in strong values and identity.
Parents in attendance were urged to play an active role in shaping not only the academic journeys of their children but also their character and emotional well-being. The discussion reinforced the idea that preparing future-ready learners is a shared responsibility between schools, families, and society at large.
In his address, the founder of Sunrise Virtual School, Ben Kairu, reflected on the journey of establishing the institution and the vision behind it. He spoke passionately about the need to leverage technology to expand access to quality education and to create learning environments that are flexible, inclusive, and globally competitive.
Eng. Kairu noted that Sunrise Virtual School was born out of a desire to break traditional barriers to education and to provide learners with opportunities that transcend geographical limitations. He emphasized that the future of education lies in innovation, personalization, and the ability to prepare students not just for exams, but for life.
He also reiterated the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically competent but also grounded in strong values and equipped to make a positive impact in society.
A major highlight of the day was the recognition of academic excellence, where Ms. Brea Neshama was awarded Kshs 90,450 after emerging the best overall student in the 2025 IGCSE examinations. She achieved an outstanding performance of six A grades, including three A*, earning admiration from attendees and serving as an inspiration to her peers.
The colorful event saw students creatively showcasing their future career aspirations, embodying roles ranging from scientists and engineers to entrepreneurs and global leaders. It was a powerful demonstration of ambition, creativity, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for the younger generation.
As the event concluded, the overarching message remained clear: while the future of careers continues to evolve, the enduring foundation of success will always be character, integrity, and the ability to adapt to change.
Sunrise Virtual School’s “Come As You Will Be Day” not only celebrated academic achievement and innovation but also set a compelling vision for the future of education in Kenya and beyond—one that balances knowledge with values and prepares learners to thrive in both their professions and their lives.