President William Ruto has issued a resolute directive for the reopening of all schools on Monday, May 13, 2024. This decision follows a careful consideration of improved weather forecasts, signaling a decline in heavy rains that had previously impeded the resumption of academic activities.
Originally slated for reopening on April 29, 2024, the commencement of the academic calendar was deferred to May 6, 2024, due to persistent disruptions caused by the inclement weather conditions. However, with the recent weather improvements, President Ruto has deemed it suitable to proceed with the reopening of educational institutions.
Simultaneously, the President has taken proactive measures to address the infrastructure challenges faced by schools in the aftermath of the adverse weather conditions. President Ruto has instructed that funds for the reconstruction of damaged school infrastructure be expedited and made available through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF). This move aims to swiftly restore the conducive learning environment necessary for students across the country.
The decision to postpone the reopening of schools was not taken lightly. Last week, on Friday, President Ruto directed the Ministry of Education to indefinitely delay the resumption of academic activities in response to the flooding crisis triggered by the heavy rains. However, with the weather situation showing signs of improvement, President Ruto has deemed it appropriate to reverse the directive and allow schools to reopen.