Parents, traders rush to beat deadline as schools reopen nationwide

After a two-and-a-half-month holiday, schools nationwide have reopened. The first to return were students under the 8-4-4 system and junior secondary school learners, with Grade Ten students expected to resume next Monday.

At Kisii Comprehensive School, lessons were already underway, with teachers taking attendance and settling learners into their classes. Headteacher James Mitunda encouraged parents to ensure their children attend regularly, noting the school’s commitment to completing the syllabus on schedule.

In Kericho County, Litein Primary School welcomed pupils as its secondary school counterpart, Litein Boys, also reported back with their belongings after a strike disrupted the previous term.

Headteacher Elijah Langa said about 80 percent of learners had reported, with all teachers present, urging parents to support regular attendance. Parent Diana Chepkemoi echoed this sentiment, appealing to families to ensure children do not lag behind academically.

The start of the new school year also brought a familiar rush at Uhuru Market along Jogo Road, where parents purchased uniforms, books, shoes, and bags. Traders reported brisk sales compared to last year, when the market experienced lower demand due to the absence of first-year students and limited transitions between schools.