Catholic Diocese of Kitale Bishop Henry Juma Odonya has challenged candidates preparing for this year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination to pursue academic excellence while upholding discipline, integrity and Christian values.
Speaking during a special Holy Mass for St. Joseph’s Boys High School-Kitale KCSE candidates at the priestly formation grounds of St. Joseph’s Parish in Kitale, the Bishop said success in education should be complemented by sound moral and spiritual formation.
Preaching on the theme “Called to Holiness,” Bishop Odonya urged the candidates to remain focused on their studies and become ambassadors of Christ both in school and in society.
He said education and faith are complementary pillars in nurturing responsible, knowledgeable and God-fearing citizens, urging learners not to separate academic pursuits from their spiritual lives.
The Bishop encouraged the candidates to embrace hard work, discipline and resilience as they prepare for the national examination, noting that academic success is achieved through commitment, perseverance and trust in God.
Quoting the Gospel according to St. Matthew on the mission of Christ’s disciples, he reminded the students that challenges are part of life’s journey and urged them to remain steadfast in their faith despite difficulties.
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Bishop Odonya further advised the candidates to seek wisdom, learn from people of integrity and cultivate values that would shape them into responsible leaders capable of transforming society.
The cleric also commended teachers for their dedication to delivering quality education and mentoring learners, saying their commitment continues to play a critical role in preparing candidates for both examinations and life beyond school.
He equally lauded parents for their unwavering support in providing a conducive learning environment and called on them to remain actively engaged in nurturing their children’s moral and academic development.
At the same time, Bishop Odonya expressed concern over recent cases of student unrest reported in some schools across the country, attributing the trend to declining moral values and calling for stronger collaboration between parents, teachers and the Church in instilling discipline among learners.
He maintained that while performing well in the KCSE examination remains important, the ultimate goal of education is to produce graduates who are morally upright, spiritually grounded and committed to serving society.
The Holy Mass ended with special prayers for the candidates as they enter the final phase of preparation for the 2026 KCSE examination.
The service was attended by priests and members of religious congregations led by Vicar General Fr. Peter Nyamache, as well as teachers, parents and the St. Joseph’s National Boys High School fraternity.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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