File image of Education CS Julius Ogamba.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced that the Ministry of Education will review the school calendar from next year to ensure a more balanced academic schedule.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 10, CS Ogamba said the move is aimed at ensuring a more balanced distribution of school terms throughout the year.
According to Ogamba, under the new plan, all terms will have about 12 weeks, unlike the current calendar, where the first term runs for 12 weeks, the second term for 14 weeks, and the third term for 9 weeks.
“Starting next academic year, the Ministry shall rationalise the school calendar to ensure balanced terms across the school year,” CS Ogamba said.
At the same time, CS Ogamba announced reports of unrest have so far been received from 204 senior schools nationwide.
However, learners in 59 of the affected institutions have already resumed classes, with more schools expected to reopen in the coming days.
“We take this opportunity to commend the majority of our learners in schools across the country for remaining disciplined and committed to their studies.
“We also commend the heads of these schools, teachers and parents for guiding the learners and ensuring stability and continuity in school operations. We call upon them to keep up with the good work,” he stated.
The Education CS attributed the recent wave of unrest to several factors, including leadership challenges within schools, examination-related anxiety, poor conditions in boarding facilities, alcohol and drug abuse, peer influence, and copycat behaviour among students.
CS Ogamba confirmed that the second-term mid-term break will proceed as scheduled from June 24 to June 28, 2026 and urged parents to use the break to engage with their children, provide guidance and support.
“Parents and guardians are urged to use the break to spend time with their children and to provide guidance and support to them.
“Any grievances or concerns should be articulated appropriately and shared with schools and other relevant authorities for action,” said Ogamba.
He also directed all schools to convene Parents Association meetings to review learner welfare, strengthen safety measures, intensify guidance and counselling programmes, and improve mechanisms for handling student grievances.
Further, CS Ogamba instructed County and Sub-County Education Offices to conduct targeted safety assessments and monitor institutions considered vulnerable to unrest.
