Many schools across the country have been forced to cancel end-of-year events after a new directive from the Ministry of Education instructed institutions to suspend activities such as PP2 graduation ceremonies, Sports Days, and other extracurricular functions.
The decision has left parents, teachers, and learners unsettled, especially since most schools had already made detailed plans for the celebrations, including decorations, costumes, and performance rehearsals.
The directive, which came through an official circular from the Ministry, stated that schools must concentrate on completing the syllabus before closing for the term.
It emphasized that students should be given enough time to prepare for national assessments, with teachers focusing on revision and syllabus coverage.
According to the Ministry, the move is meant to help restore discipline and order within schools and ensure that the education calendar remains steady as the year comes to an end.
In various parts of the country, headteachers have been informing parents about the cancellations.
Many have described the move as disappointing but necessary. One school head in Nairobi said their school had already printed certificates and prepared for a colorful PP2 graduation, but they had no choice but to cancel the event after the circular arrived.
The head explained that all focus will now shift to academics and revision activities for the learners.
Among parents, reactions have been mixed. Some have accepted the directive, saying it will help teachers and learners concentrate on education.
However, others feel that such activities are essential for children’s emotional and social growth. A parent from Nakuru said graduation and sports events are special to young learners because they encourage confidence, teamwork, and motivation.
The parent added that cancelling them completely takes away a sense of excitement and achievement that children look forward to at the end of the year.
Teachers’ unions have also weighed in on the matter, asking the Ministry of Education to improve communication and provide a clear timeline for the suspension of the activities.
They argued that while academic focus is crucial, extracurricular programs are part of holistic education and contribute to better performance by keeping learners active and engaged.
Some union officials pointed out that these events help build relationships among parents, teachers, and the community, and should not be entirely overlooked.
In response to the growing debate, the Ministry assured schools and parents that the suspension is only temporary. Officials said the move is part of the efforts to realign the academic calendar and enhance learning outcomes following disruptions experienced in previous years.
The Ministry maintained that once the goals of syllabus completion and assessment readiness are met, schools will be allowed to resume normal end-of-year activities.
Learners will have to focus on their studies and wait for another time to mark their achievements through graduations, sports competitions, and school festivities.
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