Extended Second Term to Offset Flood Disruptions in Schools
In the wake of relentless heavy rains and ensuing floods wreaking havoc across various parts of Kenya, the government has taken decisive action to mitigate the adverse effects on the education sector.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu announced on Thursday, May 9, that the second term for schools would be extended to compensate for the instructional time lost due to the natural calamities.
During an inspection exercise in Nairobi conducted as part of the preparations for schools’ reopening, Machogu emphasized the necessity of providing students with ample time to cover the syllabus, particularly those gearing up for the national examinations slated for November. While the precise duration of the extension remains unspecified, Machogu assured stakeholders that measures would be implemented to minimize disruptions to the academic calendar.
“The examination calendar remains unchanged; both KCSE and KPSEA will proceed as scheduled in November,” reiterated Machogu, underlining the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
Furthermore, Machogu highlighted the significance of offering support to Form Four candidates, who were scheduled to embark on a three-week break in August. “In consideration of the Form Four candidates, we are exploring avenues to recuperate lost time by extending the second term by a few days. We are looking into minimizing the duration of school closures,” Machogu affirmed.
In alignment with these directives, all schools are set to resume activities for the second term on Monday, May 13, 2024. President William Ruto, addressing the nation from State House Nairobi after consultations with leaders from flood-affected regions such as Kajiado and Laikipia, reassured the public that schools damaged by the floods would undergo swift repairs before classes resume.
“Based on assessments by weather experts and the government of Kenya, we are confident in the safety of reopening schools. Adequate arrangements have been made, including provision of resources through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for the repair of classrooms and other educational facilities nationwide. Therefore, all schools will reopen next Monday,” affirmed Ruto, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive learning environment despite the challenges posed by natural disasters.
