- Nyabisase Secondary has welcomed Richard Ondati as its new principal after weeks of unrest following the retirement of Chief Principal David Ogega.
- The school has reopened after a dormitory fire forced temporary closure, with education officers urging the new administration to prioritise student welfare, discipline, and security.
- Parents and community members have expressed confidence in Ondati’s 20‑year leadership record, expecting him to restore academic performance and stability at the institution.
Nyabisase Secondary School in Nyamache Sub‑county has officially welcomed Mr. Richard Ondati Ondati as its new principal, ending weeks of uncertainty following the retirement of Chief Principal David Ogega. The appointment comes after community protests demanding fresh leadership to steer the institution back to stability.
In a peaceful handing‑over ceremony presided over by education officers from Nyamache Sub‑county and the Kisii County office, Mr. Ondati received the mantle of leadership from Deputy Principal Tom Sambora, who had been acting as head since Ogega’s exit.
Delivering his first message to the school community, Mr. Ondati called for unity, honesty, and resilience. “I have come to this school as duty calls. My wish is success for all of us because unity is strength,” he said. He urged teachers, students, parents, and the surrounding community to put past challenges behind them and embrace dialogue and tolerance to sustain academic excellence.
Background of the Closure
The school had been closed indefinitely last month after a night fire razed down two dormitories and part of the dining hall. The inferno destroyed students’ personal belongings, learning materials, and infrastructure, though no fatalities were reported. Several learners were treated for smoke inhalation.
Following the incident, the Ministry of Education and security agencies launched investigations and ordered the closure of the school to allow repairs and counselling. Students were sent home for two weeks and later resumed studies after contributing fines to help restore damaged property.
Education officers at the handover urged the new administration to prioritise student welfare, discipline, and security. They said the fire was a painful lesson and called on the community to rally behind the school to prevent similar incidents.
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Ondati’s Track Record
Parents expressed confidence in Mr. Ondati’s ability to restore the school’s reputation, citing his 20 years of experience in school leadership. He began his career as Deputy Principal at Kerongorori Secondary School under the mentorship of Dr. Tabitha Mogonchi, now Principal of Kereri Girls National School.
He was later promoted to Mochorwa Secondary School in Gucha Sub‑county, where he steered excellence in academics and sports. His tenure left a strong legacy, and he handed over to his deputy, Mr. James Arwasa, who is currently acting as principal.
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Mr. Ondati pledged to focus on restoring confidence, improving academic performance, and strengthening dialogue between students and teachers. He appealed to parents to pay fees on time and support school programs so Nyabisase can reclaim its position as one of the top‑performing schools in Nyamache Sub‑county.
By Enock Okong’o
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