Catholic Diocese of Kitale launches Diocesan education advisory board

The Catholic Diocese of Kitale has officially launched its Diocesan Education Advisory Board in a formal ceremony presided over by Bishop Henry Juma Odonya, marking a significant step in strengthening Catholic education across the Diocese.

The newly inaugurated board has been tasked with advising the Diocese, particularly the Diocesan Education Office, on all matters relating to education. Its mandate includes guiding Catholic education policy, supporting the growth and development of learning institutions, and enhancing the quality and standards of education in all Catholic-sponsored centres.

These include primary and secondary schools, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and other learning facilities under the Diocese.

Speaking after the inauguration, Bishop Odonya said the establishment of the board reflects the Diocese’s firm commitment to promoting Integral Human Development. He emphasized that Catholic education must go beyond academic excellence to nurture values, discipline, and moral formation rooted in Catholic principles.

“The Church remains steadfast in its mission to form well-rounded individuals who are intellectually competent, morally upright, and socially responsible. This board will help us safeguard and strengthen that vision,” the Bishop said.

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The Diocesan Education Advisory Board comprises ten members and is chaired by Bishop Henry Juma Odonya. Other members are the Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Paul Sunguti; the Religious Education Advisor, Sister Brigid Masinde; the Diocesan Legal Officer, Rev. Fr. Francis Kabiruri; and Joseph Keter, Director of Lamplighter Academy and a former school principal.

Also serving on the board are former Chewoyet National School Principal Simon Kodomuk from Kapenguria Parish; former Holy Rosary Girls Secondary School Principal Consolata Sortum from Ortum Parish; the Chairperson of the Catholic Parents Education Institutions Association (CaPEIA), Rev. Fr. Daniel Nakameti; the CAPSHA Chairperson, Pius Lokwopeta of Tartar Primary School; and the CaSPA Chairperson and Principal, Mr. Gerald Masibayi.

The Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Sunguti, lauded the Bishop for initiating the board and appointing a team with vast experience in education leadership. He expressed confidence that the board would provide strategic guidance and contribute to sustainable growth and improved performance of Catholic institutions within the Diocese.

“This is a new beginning that promises great impact. With the collective wisdom and experience of the board members, Catholic education in this Diocese is poised for greater heights,” Rev. Fr. Sunguti said.

According to the guidelines of the Education Commission of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), the Diocesan Education Advisory Board is appointed by the Bishop for a renewable term of three years. The board plays a critical role in offering leadership, direction, and support in advancing and strengthening Catholic education.

The launch underscores the Catholic Diocese of Kitale’s renewed focus on quality, values-driven education as a cornerstone for holistic human development.

By Godfrey Wamalwa