As schools across Kenya reopen for the first term of 2026, the Ministry of Interior has issued a strong safety advisory urging parents, guardians, and learners to exercise vigilance during travel and daily routines.
The advisory emphasises early travel, avoidance of late‑night journeys, and the use of recognised public transport and registered SACCOS. Learners were further encouraged to move in groups, look out for one another, and avoid bad company, drugs, or criminal activity while on the road.
Parents and guardians were reminded to always account for their children. “Know where your child is at all times,” the statement read, underscoring the need for constant supervision. Drivers were also cautioned to prioritise the safety of passengers and other road users.
The directive comes alongside calls from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), which urged private motorists, public transport operators, school administrators, and parents to share responsibility in safeguarding learners. NTSA stressed strict compliance with traffic rules, proper journey planning, and avoidance of night travel due to reduced visibility.
The Authority also insisted that vehicles transporting children must be roadworthy, fully licensed, and properly maintained, with valid insurance, road service licenses, and inspection certificates. “To further protect our children, we strongly appeal to parents and guardians: do not permit your children to board any non‑compliant vehicles,” NTSA said.
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Basic learning institutions reopened on Monday, January 5, 2025, marking the start of the 2026 academic calendar. The term will run for 13 weeks, closing on April 2, with a half‑term break scheduled from February 25 to March 1.
Learners are returning to classrooms after weeks of festive celebrations, with administrators and teachers preparing to resume academic programmes. Education officials have urged schools to maintain discipline and provide supportive environments as students settle back into routine. Parents were also reminded of the importance of punctuality and attendance from the first day to ensure smooth syllabus coverage.
The reopening signals a nationwide return to normal school activities, with lessons, co‑curricular programmes, and assessments expected to roll out as scheduled.
By Masaki Enock
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