Founder Statement

Mrs. Elizabeth Masiga, a distinguished educationist, embarked on a remarkable journey in the
field of education. After graduating in 1967, she joined the Ministry of Education’s Examination
Administration department. Her dedication to education saw her furthering her studies, obtaining
a Post Graduate Diploma in Education and a Master’s Degree in Geography.

In 1975, Elizabeth transitioned to the Inspectorate Division of the Ministry of Education,
eventually reaching the position of Chief Inspector of Schools in 1995. Two years later, she
assumed the role of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, leaving a lasting impact.
However, in 1999, Elizabeth retired from her public service career, marking the end of an
illustrious chapter.

Elizabeth’s involvement in crafting the 8-4-4 education system left her with concerns about its
implementation. While acknowledging the system’s potential to bring out the gifts, talents, and
academic excellence of Kenya’s children, she observed focus on “how many marks one got”.
Elizabeth advocated for a more holistic education that encompassed social-cultural learning,
emphasizing values rooted in the Christian faith.

Upon retirement at the age of 56 in 1999, Elizabeth set out to realize her vision of holistic
education by founding her own school. This marked the inception of Phase II of her educational
journey. Undertaking extensive research on education systems and curricula, she discovered the
Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) System, an individualized approach emphasizing both
education and character excellence.

Enthralled by ACE’s alignment with her vision, Elizabeth, accompanied by her daughter
Caroline Kithinji, underwent ACE teacher training in South Africa. The year 2000 saw the
commencement of the physical construction of Mikisa School, initially operating from
Elizabeth’s house with her grandchildren as the pioneering students.

Over the next six years, Elizabeth and Caroline worked tirelessly to establish Mikisa School.
Elizabeth’s goal was clear: to provide education with excellence and nurture character, equipping
future leaders with essential skills and attributes. However, this phase brought unprecedented
challenges as Elizabeth, accustomed to a support network as a Permanent Secretary, found
herself handling Human Resource, Operational, Administrative, and Financial roles
independently.

Despite facing challenges, Elizabeth remained focused. Tragically, in 2007, she was diagnosed
with cancer of the liver. During her treatment, she continued to guide Hellen Maleche, her
daughter, providing wisdom and counsel on running the school. In her last days, Elizabeth
expressed a profound belief in the importance of God in education, envisioning a return to school
as a chaplain if given a chance.

Despite her courageous fight, Elizabeth Masiga passed away in June 2008. In that same year,
Hellen Maleche took over the reins of Mikisa School, as the director, committed to continuing
Elizabeth’s legacy of holistic education and character development.