A team from Education News visited St. Mary’s School in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County where Grade 7 students spoke about their experiences in Junior Secondary School (JSS). Here is what they had to say;
Edward Mbugua Gicharicha
On the first day we were greeted and welcomed to school with open arms. I was able to make new friends and also given a new school uniform, which I was proud to wear and go to our new classroom.
In class, we were given a warm welcome by our Mathematics teacher, and then we later picked our lockers and finally settled down in class in readiness for our first lesson.
The second day we started knowing what was around us; for example our new laboratory, Home Science room and Computer Laboratory. We were able to start our practicals and school work.
I am happy for Junior Secondary School because it helps to put my talents and abilities to the test and brightens my future in picking a career. After finishing my studies, I would like to become a business man.
Nickson Katila Ndegwa
Since the day I was admitted in St. Mary’s JSS, my heart has been filled with excitement. We were given new uniforms, new teachers and new classrooms. What a joy it was!
A shock hit my mind when I entered the classroom. The teachers welcomed me warmly. The desks, chairs and even the students were wonderful. I saw some of my old friends and the others were already gone.
I was sad for a moment but then I remembered my father’s words: I came to school to learn and I came alone. I cooled down and entered the class. Our teachers introduced to us the new subjects that we would learn.
I said to myself that when I grow up I am going to be either an accountant or engineer. I hope that God will lead me to the path of victory.
Angel Wangeci
Since I joined JSS, I have had a very pleasant time though it is quite difficult to cope with all that goes on since we have 14 subjects to learn, including the optional ones. I enjoy wearing such a beautiful uniform that makes me feel special, being a pioneer of the new curriculum: the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC).
I thank the government for introducing the CBC because it enables one to appreciate different ways of learning, and it does not only concentrate on theoretical learning, but practical learning too.
We are able to nurture our talents and abilities that help us in choosing our future careers. It makes it quite clear that CBC is the best foundation for our future. After finishing my studies, I would like to become a prominent Computer Engineer.
Morgan Liam Odhiambo Chege
When I first stepped into JSS, I was introduced to my first and new teacher by the name teacher Onesmus. I was really scared at first since my parents, teachers and relatives were expecting a lot from me.
The bright side was that our new uniform was simply beautiful and unique. The first shock I was introduced to was that we were going to learn 14 subjects, the new ones being Business Studies, Pre-Technical Studies and Life Skills.
The most exciting part of it all was that we were going to be doing more practicals and reading. In the first day we were introduced to two new major things: our laboratory and library.
I like that our new subjects were going to be more of practicals. When I finish my schooling, I will become an engineer and animator, and I say this in faith that God will guide me and lead me to become what I want to be. I thank the government for giving us JSS.
Esther Wothaya Muthui Paul
When I joined St. Mary’s junior secondary, I was welcomed by my former primary school teachers. I was first admitted into this school before I started learning. I was taken to the tailoring room and given new and senior-like uniform. I really admired the uniform and the new hairstyle.
When I first started learning, I saw the subjects were too many but I told myself that if I managed 12 in primary, 14 in JSS will be a piece of cake. I learned subjects like Maths, English, Kiswahili, CRE, Pre-Technical Studies, among others.
Although my old primary school friends are with me, I also got a new friend called Gloria. At first I thought we were going to be in the same class but we got a new one, a laboratory and library. We also received a new teacher called Mr. Onesmus.
I am a pioneer Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) learner and I will continue learning and studying in this school because it is a Catholic school and it teaches us more about God.
I want to advise other students that no matter how hard the subjects are, they have to pull through and they will succeed in all their dreams and hopes. In the future, I would like to be a lawyer in the Supreme Court.
Gloria Kemunto
As a Grade 7 learner, I particularly support CBC. It has enabled us to see new things and have more experience. Grade 7 has a lot of subjects. Since the time I wore my new uniform, I knew it was a new beginning and that made me prepared for anything.
I thank the government for developing the new curriculum and that I am sure all CBC learners will grow to be ethical citizens.
Grade 7 has a total of 14 subjects which are very easy. The teachers are quite welcoming and I would like to encourage all the CBC learners to work hard.
The thing I like most of all is that CBC, compared to 8-4-4, has enabled learners to pursue any career. CBC has also reduced the years of primary schooling, helping us to face life in a good way.
I want to become either a doctor or footballer and CBC encourages all of them. JSS is not an easy path to take, but if you are well prepared all is well.
Daniel Oketch Ombonga
At first I was confused about what life would be, but when I got to see the extra subjects, the new laboratory and the library, I began to realize that the government had done a good thing to bring CBC into our lives.
The teachers also took pains in introducing us to the new curriculum. The transition from Grade 6 to 7 is something to remember since I was welcomed softly, and all the extra subjects are good.
I thank the CBC teachers for creating clubs for us to open our minds away from academics. Integrated Science has encouraged me to be a doctor and a smart Geographer.
Compiled by Roy Hezron
Photography by Vostine Ratemo
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