A new principal has officially reported to St. Marks Obambo Mixed Secondary School in Kisumu County amid calls for calm and support from education stakeholders.
Gordon Ogolla assumed office on Monday, May 18 and was warmly received by members of the teaching staff and school workers despite alleged opposition from a section of the school’s board members and area Member of Parliament.
Upon arrival, Ogolla held meetings with senior school staff, officials from the Kisumu County education office, and representatives from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) headquarters.
He assured parents, teachers, and other stakeholders that normal operations had resumed and that the institution remained stable.
Ogolla also met Kisumu County Director of Education Rosemary Birenge, who confirmed that the new principal had officially and safely taken over leadership at the school.
Birenge urged teachers, parents, and the local community to support the new principal and allow him adequate time to implement the school’s service delivery agenda.
“Our appeal is for all stakeholders to give the principal an opportunity to work and ensure smooth learning operations,” she said.
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Speaking after assuming office, Ogolla said his priority would be to create a conducive learning environment for students.
A spot check at the school showed that students had already reported back for classes and learning activities were progressing normally.
Meanwhile, the Kisumu Professionals Association has cautioned politicians against interfering in the management of learning institutions.
Association chairman Zablon Dianga said elected leaders should focus on their constitutional roles of legislation and representation rather than school administration matters.
“It is learners who suffer most whenever conflict and instability arise in schools,” Dianga said.
The association further called on MP Rosa Buyu to pursue alternative and peaceful means of resolving disputes instead of actions that could fuel unrest at the institution.
Ogolla takes over from Peter Wao, who has since been transferred to Migori County.
By Fredrick Odiero
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