A cloud of grief has descended upon St. Monica Elite Girls in Masimba, Makueni County after a 19-year-old Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidate died shortly after completing Tuesday’s examination paper.
The tragic incident has left students, teachers, and parents in deep shock during what is ordinarily one of the most important periods in the academic calendar.
According to initial reports, the student had been unwell for some time, but her condition worsened on Tuesday afternoon immediately after she finished her exam.
Sources indicate that she appeared weak as she left the examination room, prompting concern among her classmates and teachers.
Efforts were made to rush her for medical attention, but sadly, she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
School officials have expressed their devastation, noting that the young candidate had shown determination to complete her examinations despite her health challenges.
Her sudden death has not only shattered her family but also dampened the spirits of her fellow candidates, who are still in the doing their national exams.
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Authorities have moved her body to Kilome Funeral Home as investigations into the exact cause of death continue.
Education officials and police are expected to release a detailed report after the postmortem, which will help clarify the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The incident has reignited conversations about the pressure students face during the KCSE period, especially those battling illnesses while striving to meet academic expectations.
Many educators and parents have called for increased medical support and stress management interventions within schools during the exam season.
Counsellors have been deployed to the school to offer psychological support to candidates and staff affected by the loss.
The community continues to mourn the promising life cut short just moments after she completed her exam.
By Kimwele Mutuku
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