By Jeff Kizzilah
Parents Association Hails Education Milestones, Warns Nation Not to Ignore the Boy Child
The National Chairman of the Parents Association (NPA), Mr. Silas David Obuhatsa, has issued a powerful Jamhuri Day message celebrating Kenya’s progress in education while urging renewed national attention to challenges facing the boy child.
Mr. Obuhatsa opened with warm Jamhuri Day greetings, honoring Kenya’s hard-won independence and commending the collective contribution of parents, teachers, learners, and the Kenya Kwanza government in shaping the nation’s development.
Commendation of Government Achievements
The Chairman highlighted several key milestones delivered by the Kenya Kwanza administration:
Historic Teacher Recruitment:
The hiring of over 76,000 teachers on permanent and pensionable terms—Kenya’s largest recruitment since independence—has drastically reduced the teacher-student ratio and improved learning outcomes.
Infrastructure Expansion:
The construction of over 23,000 new classrooms and the ongoing rollout of 1,600 modern science laboratories have strengthened the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and helped relieve congestion across schools.
New University Funding Model:
The new student-centred financing framework, which provides up to 90% scholarships for deserving and needy students, ensures no learner is denied university education due to financial hardship.
Growth of TVET Institutions:
The expansion and strengthening of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres continue to empower youth with practical skills aligned with Kenya’s job market.
Smooth Grade 9 to Grade 10 Transition
Mr. Obuhatsa applauded the successful administration of the first Grade 9 National Assessment, which marks a smooth transition into Grade 10 under the CBC. He noted the improved performance of girls in the assessment, which he described as both a celebration and a warning sign.
A Call to Support the Boy Child
While celebrating girls’ academic excellence, the Chairman emphasized that the latest results signal a growing gap.
“Our girls have outshone the boys in the Grade 9 assessment. This is commendable—but it is also a reminder that the boy child urgently needs attention, guidance, and targeted support,” he said.
He urged parents, teachers, community leaders, and policymakers to collaborate in addressing the emotional, academic, and social challenges that continue to disadvantage boys in many parts of the country.
Mr. Obuhatsa reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to supporting the government and all education stakeholders in ensuring that every Kenyan child—boy or girl—accesses quality education, safety, and opportunity.
