In a move that defies the typical trend of wealthy elites sending their children overseas, New Life Prayer Center and Church founder Pastor Ezekiel Odero has revealed why his own children attend local Kenyan schools, insisting that a strong educational foundation is far more important than luxury facilities.
The popular televangelist, known for his vast following and considerable wealth, used his Holy Communion event on Sunday, December 14, 2025, to address speculation about his children’s education, stating he practices what he preaches by enrolling them in the very Kilifi school he established.
Pastor Ezekiel made it clear that his decision to keep his children local is a testament to his faith in the institution’s standards, despite having the means to easily afford any prestigious school globally.
The preacher proudly cited the history of his first educational venture, the New Life Primary School, which had very humble beginnings, emphasizing that the building’s modest infrastructure did not hinder academic excellence.
“My first primary school, New Life Primary School, is where my child completed Class 8, performed very well in the KCSE, and is now in university,” he announced to his congregation, providing proof that his model works.
He then used this success story to strongly refute claims that the Kilifi International School, which has recently generated buzz online, is somehow inadequate.
“The new school in Kilifi is even better than that primary school, which was made of iron sheets [mabati]. That iron-sheet school still produced excellent results, showing that the foundation is more important than the building,” he shared.
Pastor Ezekiel made a passionate argument for integrity, stating he would never encourage his congregation to enroll their children in a school he wasn’t confident enough to send his own.
“I decided that I don’t want to encourage people to bring their children to a school where I cannot have my own kids studying,” he declared.
The preacher confirmed that his children are currently enrolled in the Kilifi school, attending various classes and years, ensuring that parents can be confident in the institution’s quality.
He concluded by reiterating his belief that primary education serves as the vital foundation for all future success, regardless of the cost or location of the institution.
