Hundreds of parents have been flocking top-performing secondary schools in Bungoma as the new Grade 10 admission process unfolds, seeking placements for their children amid high demand.
At Friends School Kamusinga, Chief Principal Paul Weloba confirmed that the school has received over 2,000 applications for a government allocation of just 900 students. “As a school, we feel we should assist parents. We have engaged the Ministry of Education for guidance and formed an admission committee to manage the process. This is ongoing, and we are also tracking reporting trends,” Weloba said.
The principal noted that the new Grade 10 system, introduced as part of the Competency-Based Education (CBE), has presented challenges.
Some parents had raised concerns that their children had been allocated schools far from home, prompting government intervention allowing schools to accommodate additional students where possible.
Weloba highlighted that Friends School Kamusinga specializes in STEM education but will continue to provide co-curricular programs. “We will not neglect arts; our strength in drama, basketball, and soccer will remain. We are committed to balancing academics and co-curricular activities,” he said.
He added that the school has sufficient infrastructure and trained teachers to accommodate new students, alluding that over the past two years, more than 30 teachers have been posted to the school by the Teachers Service Commission.
On academic performance, Weloba expressed pride in the school’s KCSE results despite a minor dip in 2025. The school recorded 16 straight A’s and 79 A- grades, down from 47 straight A’s and 111 A- in 2024, posting a mean score of 9.3.
ALSO READ:
Bomet school records alarming KCSE performance as 29 students score ‘E’
Elsewhere in Bungoma, schools are also managing high student intake. Teremi High School Principal John Wakwabubi said the school is slated to admit 650 students and will expand capacity if applications exceed the ministry allocation.
Mitua Girls Senior School, led by Principal Angeline Kosgei, reported smooth ongoing admissions. The school posted one A-, eight B+, 70 B, 100 B-, and 120 C+ grades in the 2025 KCSE exams.
At St. James ACK Secondary, a day school in Mapela, only 20 Grade 10 students had been admitted at the time of reporting, though the school anticipates over 300 enrollees. Principal Emily Magambo highlighted challenges with online applications, limited laboratory and computer facilities, and high demand for STEM courses. “Half of our learners want to study computers, but we lack the machines. We also need laboratories to support practical learning. We urge the Ministry and local leaders to intervene,” she said.
Bunang’eni Friends Secondary School Principal Simon Mutembei said the school expects all Grade 10 learners to have reported by Friday. “Parents can pay fees in cash or in kind, such as firewood, maize, and beans, to support their children’s studies. We expect to admit over 100 students,” he noted.
As Bungoma schools continue to navigate the complex Grade 10 admission process, principals emphasize preparedness and a commitment to maintaining quality education amid rising demand.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
