Turbo: The Ministry of Education has assured parents and the country that all the current 1.2 million grade 9 learners will transition to senior school in January 2026. Basic education Principal Secretary, PS Amb. Prof. Julius Bitok, stated that teams at the ministry are working diligently to establish comprehensive guidelines and modalities to ensure every grade nine learner secures a spot in senior school.
According to Kenya News Agency, PS Bitok emphasized that every child would have the opportunity to continue education in senior school regardless of their grades in grade 9. He acknowledged the challenge posed by transitioning such a large number of students but reassured that adequate preparations are underway. This assurance was made during the launch of infrastructure projects in various schools within the Turbo constituency, supported by the NG-CDF. PS Bitok was accompanied by the area member of parliament, Janet Sitienei.
The early initiation of the transition process allows junior school students to select career paths and subject clusters with guidance from teachers and parents. Grade 9 students are currently applying for senior schools categorized into four clusters: 255 former national schools, 755 former extra county schools, 1300 former county schools, and 7250 former day and sub-county schools.
The government has implemented a technology-based system, accessible via selection.education.go.ke, enabling students and parents to select pathways and subject combinations with teacher assistance. PS Bitok encouraged parents and students to utilize this system to prepare for senior school in January 2026.
On infrastructure, the government plans to construct 1600 laboratories across the country between July and December this year, reinforcing its commitment to providing quality education. Despite challenges in disbursing capitation due to exchequer issues, the ministry is working closely with the national treasury to ensure timely funding for schools.
PS Bitok praised stakeholders in the education sector for their support, emphasizing that education development requires collective effort from the national government, county government, NG-CDF, education investors, and religious sectors. He highlighted the government's commitment to modernizing school infrastructure, ensuring that no learner studies in substandard conditions.
The PS outlined plans to eliminate mud wall structures, replacing them with modern facilities, and reiterated the ministry's dedication to collaborating with stakeholders for school modernization. Among the schools visited by the PS were Kaplelach, Cheremei, Kapsaos, and St. Paul Sambut Secondary School.