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Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School:
Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values

Harambee Institute exists to offer our community an education with a focus on the origins, current status, and future of the African world.

Our mission is to educate students to succeed as global citizens with a clear awareness of “who I am, where I am from, where I am going, and how I get there.”

Our vision is a collective and informed African American community utilizing science and technology as a means of promoting education for self-reliance, locally and globally.

Our core values are:

Greatness: Pursuit of excellence in all we do
Accountability: Owning what we do and who we are
Innovation: Open to new ideas with a growth mindset
Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and unity in all we do

The HBCU Tour Goes Down South!

A message from the CEO

ceo headshot

A message from the CEO

Dear Harambee Community,

Spring is in full bloom, and with it comes a renewed energy throughout our school. April is a time of growth, reflection, and forward momentum—and here at Harambee, we are embracing this season with purpose and pride.

This month, we continue to celebrate the brilliance of our scholars, the dedication of our educators, and the unwavering support of our families. As we move closer to the end of the school year, our focus remains on academic excellence, cultural pride, and community empowerment—core values that define the Harambee experience.

We are also deepening our commitment to cultivating safe, inclusive learning spaces where every scholar feels seen, valued, and equipped to thrive. Whether it’s through classroom innovations, family engagement events, or our vibrant arts and enrichment programs, we are working every day to ensure that Harambee is a place of joy, growth, and opportunity.

I encourage you to stay connected—check our website regularly for updates, follow us on social media, and reach out with any ideas or feedback. Together, we can continue to build a learning community that uplifts every child and honors the legacy of collective success.

Baba Shannon
CEO

Education for Self-Reliance

Help us build something great. HISTCS teachers, staff, and advisory groups are working hard everyday to create a high-quality student experience. If you’re a parent, community leader, or part of a larger organization we urge you to sign up for one of our volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, or attend any of our upcoming events. Let’s pull together for our kids and our community!

Get Involved

Founded in 1972, HISTCS is Pennsylvania’s first African-centered charter school

Congrats to our basketball champions!

basketball player making a dunk player and opponent running down court player going for layup team gathered for photo holding up trophy player shooting while opponent blocks coach holding trophy cheerleading team

Featured Partners

big picture alliance
academy of natural sciences
stroud water research
clef club
free haven farms
natural lands
community college of philadelphia
jefferson einstein health
jefferson health 2
pic of sa-fee devoro smiling at camera

Please join me in celebrating Sa'Fee Devero. He is a finalist in Mayor Parker's Oratorical Contest. Yet another shining example of Harambee demonstrating our first core value of GREATNESS!!!