A wave of optimism and renewed energy has swept through learning institutions in Kisumu County. In Kisumu Central Sub-county, schools reopened for the 2026 academic calendar, with teachers, parents and learners showing high enthusiasm despite the usual anxieties over delayed government funding, economic challenges among a host of issues.
A spot check across several primary and junior secondary schools revealed that 95 percent of learners had reported back within the first week of reopening, signaling one of the strongest starts to an academic year in recent times.
At Arya Primary and Junior Secondary School, located in the heart of Kisumu Central, both teachers and learners were busy settling into lessons as early as midweek. The corridors buzzed with activity, laughter and the familiar rhythm of renewed learning after the December break.
The Head of Institution, Mr. Felix Ouma, expressed confidence that the school was well-prepared to navigate the term ahead, crediting strong teamwork among teachers and the unwavering support from parents.
“Our learners have reported in large numbers. Over 95 percent turnout by the first week,” Mr. Ouma said. “We appreciate the commitment of parents and teachers who continue to work together to make Arya one of the most disciplined and focused schools in the sub-county. What we now look forward to is the timely release of Free Primary Education (FPE) capitation, which is essential for smooth operations.”
According to Ouma, the school has managed to maintain high standards despite persistent challenges ranging from congestion to delayed funding.
“We are doing our best to ensure no child is left behind,” he added. “However, timely government support will help us bridge existing gaps, especially in infrastructure and learning materials.”
Across Kisumu Central, several other head teachers shared similar concerns. While the Ministry of Education has assured institutions that FPE and Junior Secondary School (JSS) funds will reflect in school accounts soon, the delay has left many schools stretched thin as they juggle operational costs.
Parents at Arya also voiced optimism about the school’s leadership and management.
“We are confident in how the school is being run,” said one parent. “Our only wish is that the government disburses funds on time so that teachers can focus fully on academics.”
Sub-county education officials, meanwhile, have lauded schools for their high level of preparedness and the smooth reopening process. They noted that Kisumu Central has recorded one of the highest learner attendance rates in the county, which they attribute to increased community awareness and parental engagement.
Still, challenges persist from overcrowded classrooms and inadequate facilities to rising costs of running co-curricular activities. Many institutions continue to rely heavily on parental goodwill and staff improvisation as they await official funding.
Despite these hurdles, the mood across Kisumu Central remains upbeat. The sight of eager learners in their uniforms, teachers back at their posts and classrooms filled with laughter and concentration paints a hopeful picture of education’s resilience.
“Education is the heartbeat of our community. We may face challenges, but our commitment remains the same, to nurture responsible, confident and capable learners. With timely government support, we can make 2026 a remarkable year for our children.”
For now, Kisumu Central schools march forward with hope and hustle, waiting for the promised capitation funds to match their renewed determination and the dreams of thousands of learners filling their classrooms.
“We are hopeful and upbeat about the FPE funding given that it is already reflecting on the JSS accounts. Maybe by Monday or Tuesday next week, we shall be up and running,” Ouma reaffirms confidently.
