The Ministry of Education has announced a revised schedule for the half-term break for pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools. This change, communicated through a letter dated May 24, comes from the Basic Education Principal Secretary, Dr. Belio Kipsang. Initially, the half-term was set for June 20–23, but it has now been moved to June 26–28.
Dr. Kipsang cited disruptions in the reopening dates for Term Two as the primary reason for this adjustment. The term originally commenced on May 6, but reopening was postponed by a week to May 13 following a directive from President William Ruto. The postponement was necessary due to severe flooding in various regions, caused by heavy rainfall, which rendered many schools uninhabitable.
“Following the disruption of opening dates, it has been decided that the Half-Term dates for Term Two, 2024, be revised as follows: original dates: June 20th–23rd; new dates: 26th–28th June 2024,” stated Kipsang in his letter.
In addition to announcing the new dates, Dr. Kipsang also indicated that learners in boarding schools are expected to return on June 30, ensuring that they can resume their studies promptly after the break. The Principal Secretary emphasized the necessity for county education directors to disseminate this updated schedule to all head teachers and principals within their jurisdictions.
“The change may require adjustments on planned activities and schedules. You are therefore directed to communicate the content of this circular to all Head Teachers and Principals of schools under your jurisdiction,” Kipsang instructed.
The adjustment in dates will require schools to revise their planned activities and schedules accordingly. This change underscores the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that the academic calendar remains functional despite natural disruptions.
The floods that caused the postponement of the term’s start have been a significant issue, with many parts of the country experiencing heavy rainfall that led to widespread damage and displacement. The government’s decision to delay the reopening was aimed at safeguarding students’ safety and ensuring that the learning environment was conducive.
The revised half-term dates provide a necessary buffer for schools to adjust their activities and ensure minimal disruption to the academic calendar. This move is expected to help schools stabilize their schedules and ensure that students receive the required instructional time for Term Two.
Overall, the Ministry’s proactive approach in adjusting the half-term dates reflects a keen awareness of the challenges posed by natural calamities and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the educational process. Schools are now tasked with adapting to these changes swiftly to continue providing quality education to all learners.
