By SHABAN MAKOKHA
June 6, 2026| It was a moment of laughter, reflection, and inspiration as parents, teachers, and education stakeholders gathered at Musingu High School to remind candidates preparing for their national examinations that behind every student’s success lie the sacrifice, prayers, and dreams of many.
The event turned into an emotional call for learners to remain disciplined, focused, and determined as they embark on one of the most important journeys of their academic lives.
The gathering comes amid a wave of unrest and arson that has struck several schools across Kenya, highlighted by a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil that claimed the lives of 16 students and left 79 others injured. Students in more than 30 schools—among them big names including Alliance High School, Loreto High School, Lenana School, Barding Secondary School, Maranda High School, and State House Girls High School—have been sent home due to unrest.
Leading the motivation session, renowned educationist Dr. Eric Opingo challenged parents to intentionally nurture their children’s dreams from an early age and expose them to opportunities that inspire greatness. He urged parents to deliberately build confidence and faith in their children, noting that exposure plays a key role in shaping future careers and aspirations.
Drawing from his personal experience, Dr. Opingo revealed that he introduced his daughter to Strathmore University while she was still in secondary school—a move he said helped her believe that higher education and success were within reach.
“Parents must provoke the faith of their children,” he said. “Let them see possibilities. Let them dream beyond where they are today.”
His message struck a chord with many parents in attendance, who listened attentively as he emphasized that every child carries untapped potential waiting to be nurtured.
Dr. Opingo also paid glowing tribute to teachers, describing them as silent builders of society who dedicate their lives to moulding future leaders. He challenged teachers to continue guiding and mentoring learners, calling educators critical partners in raising responsible and successful citizens.
He urged students to embrace correction, guidance, and discipline, noting that success belongs to those willing to learn from others.
“When you are properly guided, you can confidently face any challenge and make sound decisions,” he told the candidates. “When you accept guidance, you become unstoppable. Discipline is not punishment; it is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be. If you remain disciplined, you will not only make your parents proud but also become the redeemers of your families.”
The words resonated deeply with the learners, many of whom sat quietly reflecting on the enormous expectations resting on their shoulders.
Parents Association chairman Bolding Alusiola called on parents to stand firmly behind the school and its teachers, reminding them that education remains the greatest investment they can make for their children.
“Our children are our future. This is our school, and these learners are our investment,” Mr. Alusiola said. “We must never grow tired of supporting them. Let us speak positively about the school and appreciate the principal, Mr. Bernard Lukuya, who works tirelessly every day for the success of our children.”
He urged parents to remain steadfast in collaborating with and supporting teachers to create an enabling environment for academic excellence. His remarks drew applause from parents, many of whom acknowledged the sacrifices Mr. Lukuya and the teachers continue to make in pursuit of academic excellence.
School principal Mr. Lukuya offered a message of reassurance, confirming that the syllabus had been fully covered and that candidates were now concentrating on revision, examinations, and intensive academic support to ensure they achieve their targets. He expressed confidence in the candidates and thanked parents for their unwavering support throughout the academic year.
“We have done our part as teachers,” he said. “The syllabus is complete. What remains now is for our candidates to remain focused, work hard, and believe in themselves.”
The principal further challenged parents to continue providing moral support, encouragement, and a conducive study environment as the examination period draws closer. Mr. Lukuya revealed that the school has set an ambitious target mean grade of 8.5, expressing optimism that the candidates are capable of achieving it.
In a moment that brought smiles across the gathering, Board of Management Chairman Javan Mukavale confidently declared that the school had completed all necessary preparations.
“We have concluded everything. What remains now is to pass the examinations,” he assured, drawing praise from parents, teachers, and students alike.
He challenged candidates to work toward achieving the school’s target mean grade of 8.5, emphasizing that the goal was attainable through commitment, discipline, and teamwork among learners, teachers, and parents.
“We believe in you. Your teachers believe in you. Your parents believe in you. The target is achievable if each one of you remains focused and committed,” he said.
Beneath the humour and emotion lay a clear message of confidence and hope.
As the meeting came to a close, prayers were offered, words of encouragement shared, and parents embraced their children with renewed hope. For many families, the forthcoming examinations represent more than just academic tests. They symbolize dreams of breaking the cycle of poverty, securing brighter futures, and rewarding years of sacrifice by parents and teachers.
And as the candidates walked away from the gathering, they carried with them a powerful message: they are not alone in their journey. An entire community is praying, sacrificing, and believing in their success.
