- Mitei has praised learners with and without special needs for excelling at the 2026 KPJSSA National Games in Thika.
- Participants demonstrated values such as discipline, creativity, and patriotism through sports and co‑curricular activities.
- Education leaders have urged continued support for sports infrastructure, inclusive equipment, and quality coaching to strengthen learner well‑being and talent development.
Teachers Service Commission (TSC) acting Chief Executive Officer Eveleen Mitei has commended the success of inclusive talent development after learners with and without special needs excelled at the 2026 Kenya Primary and Junior Schools Sports Association (KPJSSA) National Games in Thika, Kiambu County.
Mitei, who joined thousands of learners, teachers, and education stakeholders at the championships on Tuesday, August 4, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to holistic learner growth under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. She said the national games continue to demonstrate the transformative role of sports and co-curricular activities in nurturing resilience, teamwork, leadership, creativity, and patriotism among young Kenyans.
A highlight of the event was the outstanding performance of learners with special needs, who competed confidently in adapted disciplines such as chess, volleyball, table tennis, and athletics. Their determination and achievements impressed participants and spectators, underscoring Kenya’s progress in advancing inclusive education and proving that disability is not a limitation when equal opportunities are provided.
Mitei praised the athletes for their courage and discipline, describing them as a source of national inspiration. She emphasised that the CBE framework places strong focus on talent development, encouraging schools to identify and nurture each learner’s unique strengths beyond academics.
She also recognised the dedication of teachers, coaches, administrators, parents, and education partners whose mentorship has been instrumental in transforming school sports into a pathway for producing future national and international athletes.
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The KPJSSA National Games have provided learners with opportunities to interact across diverse cultural backgrounds, build friendships, strengthen social cohesion, and promote national unity. The championships also serve as a critical talent identification platform, with many participants expected to advance to higher levels of competition and represent Kenya regionally and globally.
Education stakeholders at the event called for continued investment in sports infrastructure, quality coaching, training facilities, and inclusive equipment to ensure meaningful participation for all learners. They noted that strengthening school sports contributes significantly to learner well-being, discipline, mental health, and academic motivation.
The inclusion of learners with special needs in this year’s championships further demonstrated Kenya’s commitment to equitable education. By providing accessible sporting opportunities, schools continue to empower learners to realise their full potential while challenging stereotypes surrounding disability.
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The 2026 KPJSSA National Games stand as a celebration of excellence, diversity, and the transformative power of education. It reflects the shared commitment of the TSC, Ministry of Education, teachers, parents, and stakeholders to nurturing well-rounded citizens equipped with the values and competencies required for national development.
By Hillary Muhalya
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