EDUCATION MINISTRY DELAYS SECOND TERM HALF TERM BY A WEEK DUE TO RAINS
The Ministry of Education has announced a one-week delay in the start of the second term half-term break for schools across the country. This decision comes in the wake of the late opening of schools caused by heavy rains that have disrupted the academic calendar.
Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Belio Kipsang, made the announcement, stating, “The second term half-term break, originally scheduled to commence earlier, will now take place from June 26 to June 28, 2024. This adjustment is necessitated by the delayed reopening of schools due to the unprecedented rains experienced in various parts of the country.”
The heavy rains have caused significant logistical challenges, including impassable roads and damaged infrastructure, which have hindered students and teachers from attending school. Consequently, the ministry deemed it necessary to adjust the academic calendar to accommodate the lost time and ensure that the curriculum is adequately covered.
Dr. Kipsang emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and staff, stating, “The safety of our learners and teachers is paramount. We must ensure that everyone can travel to and from school safely, without the risk posed by the current weather conditions.”
The revised dates for the half-term break will provide schools with the opportunity to recover some of the time lost during the delayed opening. It is anticipated that this adjustment will help to realign the academic schedule, thereby minimizing disruptions to the learning process.
“The Ministry of Education remains committed to providing quality education and ensuring that our academic calendar is flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen circumstances,” Dr. Kipsang added. “We urge all stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and students, to be understanding and cooperative as we navigate these challenges.”
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions from parents and educators. While some welcome the decision as a necessary measure to ensure the safety and continuity of education, others are concerned about the potential impact on the overall academic performance of students.
As the weather patterns continue to be unpredictable, the Ministry of Education has reassured the public that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and make any further adjustments as needed. The ministry also encourages all schools to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to protect students and staff during this period.
