- For the first time, Kereri Girls marked this day as a newly elevated National School, having recently risen from Extra-County status.
- The event also came as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) transition looms large, with the school preparing to admit its pioneer Grade 10 learners in January 2026.
- As Rev. Gechiko’s final prayer echoed in the air, the message was clear: Kereri Girls is not waiting for the future. It is creating it.
The solemn air of worship fused with joyous celebration as Kereri Girls High School gathered for the annual Prayers Day of its Form Four candidates. Parents, teachers, church leaders, and dignitaries filled the grounds. But this was no ordinary ceremony; it was one of historic significance.
For the first time, Kereri Girls marked this day as a newly elevated National School, having recently risen from Extra-County status. The event also came as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) transition looms large, with the school preparing to admit its pioneer Grade 10 learners in January 2026.
The theme was unmistakable: Kereri is ready spiritually, academically, and structurally to embrace a new chapter in Kenya’s education story.
A Principal with a Vision for the Future
Amb. Dr. Tabitha Mogonchi, DHL, the senior principal, stood tall as she addressed the audience. With conviction, she painted a picture of readiness:
“Kereri is prepared to host all three CBC pathways: STEM, Social Sciences, and Arts and Sports Sciences. Our facilities are modern, our teachers are trained, and our girls are inspired to explore their God-given potential.”
She highlighted investments in modern laboratories, expanded arts and sports programs, and ICT-enabled learning spaces. More than infrastructure, she stressed a change in teaching philosophy: “We are embracing learner-centered methodologies that allow each girl to shine.”
For the Form Four candidates, she offered motherly yet firm counsel: “Pray as if all depends on God, but work as if all depends on you. Discipline, focus, and prayer will see you through.”
Rev. Richard Gechiko’s Pastoral Blessing
The ceremony’s highlight came from Rev. Richard Gechiko, Senior Pastor of Nyaramba Township PAG Church and the day’s Chief Guest. After delivering a spirited exhortation on faith and diligence, he led the congregation in a moving prayer for the candidates.
“These girls are the arrows of tomorrow. May God’s favor guide their minds in exams, steady their hearts against fear, and light their paths into great futures.”
Parents wiped tears as he prayed over the girls, many kneeling in reverence. It was a moment that bound the entire community in shared hope.
Voices of Encouragement: Teachers and Leaders
Several voices from within and beyond the school enriched the day:
- Eunice Okello, Kisii Central Sub-County Director of Education, lauded Kereri’s record of quality results: “This school has consistently sent girls to top universities with quality grades. We have not heard of indiscipline cases here. That is commendable. I wish you the very best in your exams, fly the Kereri flag high.”
- Kennedy Gichana, Deputy Principal Academics, gave a practical charge to the girls: “Success comes to those who are organized. Manage your time, focus on your weak areas, and remember: hard work never betrays.”
- Hyline Nyakundi, Deputy Principal Administration, emphasized discipline as the bridge to success: “Discipline is the only guarantee that what you dream of will be achieved. Guard it jealously.”
- Veronicah Ongeri, 2024 Form Four Class Coordinator, with visible pride, she reminded “The Paragons”: “You are the Paragons; the standard bearers. Go and prove to the world that Kereri produces not just students but leaders.”
Parents: A Call to Walk the Journey Together
Representing the Parents Association, Charles Akuma gave a heartfelt appeal: “Education is not an expense; it is an investment. These prayers are not for today only, they are for the future of our daughters. Parents, let us keep supporting our girls, not just financially, but with encouragement, prayers, and presence.”
He also echoed accountability, humorously reminding fellow parents: “Keep those receipts; our sacrifices must count.”
The Faith Foundation: BOM and Teachers’ Pledge
Rev. Lawrence Morara, BOM Chair, wrapped his remarks with a message of stewardship: “National School status is not just a title. It is a responsibility. God has elevated us, and now He demands more from us. We must prepare girls who will serve this nation and the world with integrity.”
Teachers too made commitments. One teacher summed it in a line that resonated deeply: “We will walk with these girls even into the midnight hour before exams. Their victory is our victory.”
CBC: Pathways of Promise
Throughout the day, the CBC future loomed large. Dr. Mogonchi reassured stakeholders that Kereri was fully ready:
- STEM pathway anchored in upgraded laboratories and math/science mentorship.
- Social Sciences pathway strengthened through debate, literature clubs, and humanities projects.
- Arts and Sports pathway boosted with new instruments, performance spaces, and sports facilities.
Already, clubs and societies are nurturing talents beyond academics: scouting, drama, debate, chess, and music, with Kereri having represented Kenya at the East African Scouting competitions in 2024.
A School of Consistent Excellence
Eunice Okello’s observation was backed by history. Kereri Girls has consistently posted strong KCSE results, sending hundreds of candidates to public universities. Its scouting club has won regional titles, while drama, debate, and sports teams have shone nationally.
The elevation to National School status was therefore no surprise. It was recognition of a culture that blends prayer, discipline, talent, and academics.
A Ceremony That Stirred Hope
The day ended with song. The choir lifted harmonies of thanksgiving, parents embraced their daughters, and teachers beamed with pride. The Form Four class walked away not only blessed but also emboldened, carrying the twin torches of prayer and preparation.
For Kereri Girls High School, Prayers Day 2025 was more than a ritual. It was a manifesto of faith and foresight. A school once Extra-County, now a National School. A school ready not only for KCSE but for the CBC dawn of 2026.
As Rev. Gechiko’s final prayer echoed in the air, the message was clear: Kereri Girls is not waiting for the future. It is creating it.
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