By Hilda Atika
Catholic Diocese of Kakamega Bishop Joseph Obanyi has congratulated candidates from Catholic-sponsored schools in Kakamega and Vihiga counties who sat for the 2024 KCSE exams.
Speaking during a meeting at Bishop Stam Pastoral Centre on Friday, the Bishop addressed principals, head teachers, administrators, and directors in a session aimed at preparing for the upcoming 2025 KCSE exams scheduled for the end of the year.
He expressed concern over the potential for exam irregularities and malpractices in Catholic schools but commended these institutions for maintaining integrity, noting there were no withheld or canceled results from the schools. Bishop Obanyi encouraged attendees to uphold ethical standards and warned against actions that could compromise exam integrity.
The Bishop applauded the good performance of Catholic-sponsored schools and urged teachers to continue striving for excellence and delivering high-quality results. He also highlighted the troubling statistics of 46,000 students who received an ‘E’ grade in the recently released KCSE results. He called on Boards of Management (BOMs) to implement strategies to improve academic outcomes for struggling students.
Bishop Obanyi emphasized the importance of beginning each year with such meetings to ensure the holistic development of students in Catholic schools. He stressed the role of teachers in shaping the future by instilling virtues in students, describing educators as the most trustworthy individuals in guiding society.
He also called for unity among teachers and students to avoid confusion and prevent misguided practices, particularly cautioning against groups like “prayer warriors” that may lead to incitement.
Bishop Obanyi urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to prioritize teacher promotions, noting that these advancements would enhance educational standards and ultimately benefit students.
“I am also reminding schools of the importance of involving parish priests for the smooth operation of institutions. They act as vital links between the schools and the Catholic Church,” he said. He reiterated the importance of discipline, order during school masses, and spiritual care as priorities to instill values and morality in students.
The Bishop further advised school heads to foster Catholic traditions, reject drug abuse and alcoholism, and maintain uncompromised values.
Kakamega County TSC Director, who attended the event, acknowledged the financial challenges faced by schools, particularly regarding fee payments, which impact both development and academic performance.
Father Boniface Kibaki, the Diocesan Education Director, reminded teachers to exercise caution in the selection of BOM members and assured them of support for future consultations.
