<p>Let us first accept that Ngugi wa Thiong’o being listed as a possible contender for the coveted Nobel Prize Award for Literature 2019 is worth celebrating.</p>
<p>This is a milestone for us Kenyans especially bearing in mind the white man’s unfounded claim that Africa is a desert of literary art.</p>
<p>Today, Kenyans have got every reason to celebrate following Ngugi wa Thiong’o&#8217;s nomination for the 2019 Nobel Prize Award for Literature.</p>
<p><strong>The celebrated Kenyan author was listed for the competition alongside Maryse Conde (Guadeloupe), Olga Tokarczuk (Poland), Lyudmilla Ulitskaya (Russia), Anne Carson (Canada) and Margret Atwood (Canada)</strong>.</p>
<p>This is a more diverse list as opposed to the male-dominated and euro-centric view of literature.</p>
<p>Some of Ngugi’s works include:</p>
<p>Petals of Blood</p>
<p>Weep Not Child</p>
<p>The River Between</p>
<p>Grain of Wheat</p>
<p>Wizard of the Crow</p>
<p>The winner will be announced on Thursday in the Swedish capital Stockholm.<br />
S/he will consequently receive a cash prize of Kshs 93 million, a diploma and a medal.</p>
<p><strong>SCANDAL</strong><br />
Last year’s award was put off due to a sexual and financial abuse scandal which led to the numerous resignations at the Swedish Academy, an independent body that is in charge of the awards.</p>
<p>This scandal greatly daunted and reduced public confidence in the organization.</p>
<p>Jean-Claude Arnault was sentenced to two years imprisonment after being convicted of rape, an incident that delayed the whole process. Jean was also accused of leaking the names of several Nobel Prize winners.</p>
<p>He is the husband of Katarina Frostenson, a member of the Swedish Academy.</p>
<p>Katarina Frostenson, a poet, who was among the seven academy members left the Academy after bitter rows that emanated from the rape accusations levelled against her husband.</p>
<p>There were also serious allegations of leaking of names of Nobel Prize winners and conflict of interest.</p>
<p><strong>MAJOR CHANGES</strong></p>
<p>It, therefore, paved the way for major changes in how the prize should be awarded.</p>
<p>Lars Heinkeinsten, the Executive Director of the foundation has also confirmed that there are major changes in the panel.</p>
<p>Several new members have been introduced to ensure transparency.</p>
<p>Besides, members will now be allowed to resign.</p>
<p>According to Vincent Dowd, the BBC arts correspondent, these changes have created an impression that chances of future winners being White males who write in English are slim.</p>
<p><strong>PREVIOUS WINNERS</strong><br />
The following is a list of the previous winners of the Nobel Prize for Literature:<br />
1. Alice Munro (2013)<br />
2. Bob Dylan (2016)<br />
3. Orhan Pamuk (2006)<br />
4. Toni Morrison (2003)<br />
5. Gabriel Garcia (1982)</p>

Category Archives: Education
TSC Breaking News, KCSE Results, KCPE Results, KNEC News, KUCCPS, HELB & MOE latest updates.
FACTS YOU DID NOT KNOW ABOUT TSC INTERNSHIPS 2019
<p><strong>FACTS YOU DID NOT KNOW ABOUT TSC INTERNSHIPS 2019</strong></p>
<p><strong>READ ALSO: INTERNSHIP APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURE</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Teachers Service Commission has advertised 10, 300 vacancies for interns who will be posted to serve in both public primary and secondary schools next month to plug acute shortage.</strong></p>
<p><strong>This is a commendable move towards the right direction since it will reduce the teacher-student ratio from the current 1:60 to around 1:40.</strong></p>
<p><strong>EXTERNAL LINKS WITH RELATED CONTENT</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://kenyayote.com/how-to-apply-for-tsc-internship-jobs-online-and-requirements-2019/">https://kenyayote.com/how-to-apply-for-tsc-internship-jobs-online-and-requirements-2019/</a></p>
<p><strong>It is also well-timed since the government is promoting a 100 % transition of learners from primary to secondary schools.</strong></p>
<p><strong>However, before applying for the job, here are a few facts about internships.that you need to be aware of:</strong></p>
<p><strong>INTERNSHIP: QUICK FACTS</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Teachers on internship are likely to serve anywhere in Kenya where their services will be required. However, they are free from the highly dreaded delocalization threat.</strong></p>
<p><strong>2. All graduates are advised to apply.</strong></p>
<p><strong>3. TSC has not clarified whether those who shall take up the intern positions will be given priority in mass permanent recruitment. The commission has just confirmed that those who will be on internship may get absorbed on permanent terms based on the availability of funds and their performance.</strong></p>
<p><strong>4. You do not have to serve as an intern. An internship is optional, therefore you have the option of applying or not.</strong></p>
<p><strong>5. The schools(as good practices dictate) should support the interns by providing accommodation and food where possible. This will go along way in motivating them to be effective given the meager pay (stipend)</strong></p>
<p><strong>6. Certificates will be offered to all interns. This is a plus for teachers especially those aspiring to be promoted for it is a kind gesture towards the Teachers Service Commission.</strong></p>
<p><strong>7. The payment of salaries for teachers on an internship is prompt. This is a better option compared to being employed on BOM terms where payment of salaries depends on the “principal’s mood.”</strong></p>
<p><strong>8. An internship is a long-term contract. Once the contract has been signed, it cannot be terminated. This means that the interns MUST serve in a given station for one year, period.</strong></p>
<p><strong>9. Interns will be paid Kshs 15, 000- secondary and Kshs 10, 000- primary. However, this is subject to statutory deductions.</strong></p>
<p><strong>9. 4,300 posts are available for primary school and 6, 000 for secondary schools.</strong></p>
<p><strong>WHO IS ELIGIBLE?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Those who wish to apply must meet the following requirements:</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Must be a Kenyan Citizen</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Must possess original academic and professional certificates</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Should be currently unemployed</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Should not be previously employed by the TSC on permanent terms</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Must be TSC registered</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Should be a holder of a P1 Certificate for those wishing to serve in public primary schools and a minimum of a Diploma for secondary schools</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Be ready to serve in any public school within Kenya where services are required</strong></p>
<p><strong>ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS</strong></p>
<p><strong>. A valid certificate of Good Conduct.</strong></p>
<p><strong>. A National Identity Card or Passport</strong></p>
<p><strong>. A copy of KRA Pin Certificate</strong></p>
<p><strong>. TSC Registration Certificate</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Two colored passports</strong></p>
<p><strong>. Personal accident insurance cover.</strong></p>
<p><strong>HOW TO APPLY</strong></p>
<p><strong>For a detailed explanation on how to apply, kindly visit the TSC Website- <a class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink" href="https://www.tsc.go.ke" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.tsc.go.ke</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>NOTE: THIS RECRUITMENT EXERCISE IS FREE OF CHARGE. THEREFORE, TSC WISHES TO CAUTION ALL INTERESTED APPLICANTS AGAINST FRAUDSTERS WHO MAY WISH TO TAKE ADVANTAGE AND EXTORT CASH FROM THEM.</strong></p>
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TSC BOSS NANCY MACHARIA BREAKS HER SILENCE ON TEACHERS’ NEW SALARIES
<p>In summary:</p>
<p>Dr Nancy Macharia, the TSC CEO has finally spoken about the proposals given to the TSC by KNUT and KUPPET.</p>
<p>She says the commission is looking into KUPPET’s proposal to have the teachers’ house allowances harmonized.</p>
<p>KNUT proposes to have the teachers’ salaries tripled with the lowest-paid teacher earning a basic salary of sh 65, 268.</p>
<p>KNUT’s rival KUPPET, on the other hand, is proposing a salary increase of 30 and 70 per cent during the next phase of implementing the CBA.</p>
<p>The Teachers Service Commission boss Dr Nancy Macharia has finally offered her views regarding the 2021-2015 Collective Bargaining Power.</p>
<p>Regarding KNUT’s proposal, TSC and KNUT have agreed to re-establish a committee to speed up the process of implementing the next CBA for the year 2021-2023.</p>
<p>She said that the commission is also looking into the proposal by KUPPET which seeks to harmonize house allowances for teachers.</p>
<p>KUPPET proposes that the house allowance should be equal, not based on the teacher’s job group or geographical location.</p>
<p>It seems that KUPPET has already smitten TSC’s heart since it is already agreed that the two groups shall hold a joint retreat soon to evaluate the progress and glaring gaps in the current CBA.</p>
<p>The retreat will also provide an avenue for discussing and laying the ground for the implementation of the next CBA.</p>
<p><strong>TRIPLED SALARIES</strong><br />
KNUT has asked the TSC to triple teachers’ salaries within the next two years.<br />
The details of the new salaries are contained in the next CBA for 2021-2023 which will replace the current CBA.</p>
<p>According to KNUT’s proposal, the basic salary of the lowest-paid teacher should be sh 65, 268 as opposed to the current sh 27, 195.</p>
<p>Last week, KNUT’s team led by their chairman Wycliffe Omuchenyi held a meeting at the TSC to table their proposal.</p>
<p>The embattled KNUT’s Secretary General Mr Sossion was absent following leadership wrangles within the union.</p>
<p><strong>ALLOWANCES</strong><br />
The Teachers Service Commission is allocated a budget of Sh 251 billion and it has got 318, 000 teachers to manage.</p>
<p>KNUT has therefore proposed that Senior Principals should earn sh 260, 132 whereas principals pocket sh 230, 000 every month.</p>
<p>It also proposes that Secondary Teacher I and Senior Teacher I should earn a basic salary of sh 129, 000.</p>
<p>The union further wants annual increments awarded from July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2023.</p>
<p>House allowance should also be adjusted to 50 % as of July 1, 2021.</p>
<p>On hardship allowance, the union wants it increased from the current range that is sh 6, 600- sh 38, 000 to between sh 32, 634 and sh 144, 518.</p>
<p>The union also wants all teachers handling technical and science subjects to be given a risk allowance at the rate of 10% of their salary.</p>
<p>Commuter allowances should be increased from the current sh 4, 000 to sh 16, 000 to sh 6, 000 to sh, 24, 000.</p>
<p>Leave allowance, on the other hand, should be equivalent to one month&#8217;s salary and payable annually.</p>
<p><strong>KUPPET’S PROPOSAL</strong><br />
KUPPET is proposing a salary increment of between 30 to 70 per cent in the 2021-2025 CBA.</p>
<p>The lowest-paid teacher should earn a basic salary of sh 36, 985.<br />
On house allowance, KUPPET proposes a uniform range between sh 6, 750 and sh 45, 000.</p>
<p>TSC boss Nancy Macharia said TSC is looking into the union’s proposal on harmonizing house allowances for teachers.</p>

KNUT’S GRAND PLAN FOR TSC TEACHERS
<p>There is always some light at the end of every tunnel no matter how long the passage may seem.</p>
<p>For a very long time now Kenyan teachers have been forced to yield to pressure emanating from their employer the Teachers Service Commission during pay rise tussles between the union and the commission.</p>
<p>However, details have emerged about how the ingenious Kenya National Union of Teachers is planning to make the lives of Kenyan teachers better!</p>
<p>The details were revealed ahead of the World Teachers&#8217; Day held on Saturday through a confidential document prepared by KNUT’s technical team.</p>
<p>The document partly reveals KNUT’s plans to push for higher pay and more allowances to shield Kenyan teachers from the intolerable economic conditions.</p>
<p>Encouraged by the near successful implementation of the CBA, the union now seeks to triple teachers’ salaries.</p>
<p>This is among the proposals that will be presented to the TSC for further deliberation.</p>
<p><strong>NEW SALARIES AND ALLOWANCES FOR TEACHERS</strong><br />
KNUT proposes to have the monthly basic salary of the lowest-paid teacher that is <strong>Grade B5</strong> to be raised to a maximum of <strong>sh 87, 024</strong> from the current <strong>Sh</strong> <strong>21,756</strong> and that of the highest-paid teacher that is Grade D5 to increase from the current <strong>Sh 131, 380</strong> to a maximum of <strong>sh 394, 140</strong>.</p>
<p>In an internal document issued by the KNUT’s National Executive Council, new allowances and more house allowance have been proposed.</p>
<p><strong>KNUT’S INTERNAL WARS</strong><br />
Internal sources have hinted that the ongoing leadership tussles may delay the grand plans that the union has for teachers.</p>
<p>The current plan is part of the next phase of the implementation of the CBA between the year 2021-2023.</p>
<p>The KNUT secretary-general Mr Wilson Sossion on Friday confirmed that the proposals had already been approved by the National Advisory Council of the union and the national steering committee.</p>
<p>He further added that they are ready to submit the document any time.</p>
<p><strong>KUPPET’S 30-70 % PAY RISE</strong><br />
KNUT’S rival union KUPPET, on the other hand, has already scheduled a meeting with the TSC and tabled its proposed 30-70 % salary increment.</p>
<p>KUPPET further wants house allowances to be harmonized across all the regions.</p>
<p>This new development is welcome given that there are more than 315 000 teachers who are currently under the TSC payroll.</p>
<p>The new proposal will also put a glimmer of hope in young teachers and education graduates for they are likely to view the teaching profession from a different perspective.</p>
<p><strong>WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY</strong><br />
The TSC on Saturday joined student teachers at Kenyatta University in a walk to mark the World Teachers’ Day.</p>
<p>The commission also took time to sensitize teacher trainees on what is expected of them once they join the profession.</p>
<p>KNUT secretary general, Sossion also said that young teachers need to be integrated into the teaching profession to sharpen their teaching skills early enough.</p>
<p>This is because if TSC absorbs young teachers, it will be assured of quality staff and quality education.</p>
<p>KUPPET Secretary General Akello Misori, on the other hand, requested the government to set aside adequate money to recruit and employ more teachers.</p>

BORANA’S STRANGE NAMING CULTURE
<p>The birth of a child among Africans is a special occasion usually marked by extreme joy.</p>
<p>What follows a safe delivery is the naming ceremony during which the newborn is given a name depending on the community from which the child hails.</p>
<p>The name given to a child may depend on the circumstances surrounding the birth of the child or the lineage of the child’s parents.</p>
<p>The name can also be given based on the order of birth, number of babies-twins receive special names or the emotions of the baby.</p>
<p>STRANGE CULTURE</p>
<p>The Borana people are however very different. They are currently located in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia.</p>
<p>What is perplexing about them the fact that their children are usually named after 2-3 years.</p>
<p>Unlike other African ethnic groups which instantly give a name to their newborns, naming ceremonies among the Borana are rare.</p>
<p>Besides, specific names are chosen for specific children. For instance, some names are a special preserve of firstborn children only.</p>
<p>RANDOM NAMES<br />
We are yet to understand how children should instantly respond to their mothers’ urgent calls given that they are given random names until they turn 2.</p>
<p>In an interview with BBC, Kosi Bilingaa a Borana Kenyan elder revealed that the children are given random names until they become of age.</p>
<p>WHY THE LONG PERIOD?<br />
According to Bilingaa, the reason behind the long-time is loyalty to culture.<br />
Africa is a sea of cultures, each with its uniqueness and Borana culture is no exception.</p>
<p>Their naming culture was inherited from their forefathers.</p>
<p>Besides, the ceremony requires rigorous preparation for eight days before the actual day a large hut known as the Galma is built.</p>
<p>One the hut is ready; the child’s father notifies and invites several relatives to attend the ceremony.</p>
<p>Each guest is expected to bring an Oodha of curdled milk as a gift to the child. This is why the ceremony only takes place during the heavy springs when there is plenty of milk since the cows are usually full.</p>
<p>FESTIVITIES<br />
When the time is ripe, all community members are gathered for a feast that lasts three days.</p>
<p>If the child’s parents cannot hold the event due to financial constraints, they will be obliged to seek help from relatives and friends.</p>
<p>The actual naming day is marked with festivities, blessings from elders, singing and dancing.</p>
<p>Seven people called the Torben aid the child’s father throughout the ceremony.</p>
<p>Two sticks and five twigs are arranged in a row before the entrance of the cow fence.</p>
<p>One of the sticks called the Wades belongs to the baby’s father while the other, the Danis, belongs to the child being named.</p>
<p>FACTS ABOUT THE BORANA<br />
The Borana people originated from Oromo migrants who are believed to have left the Southern Highlands of Ethiopia at around the 15th c.</p>
<p>The Oromo people had tried to move towards the East but they were driven back by the fierce Somali thus promoting Southern expansion.</p>
<p>Currently, almost 4 million Borana live in Ethiopia.</p>
<p>Various Oromo groups currently live in Ethiopia but they speak different languages that are not mutually intelligible.</p>

PROFESSOR MAGOHA SNUBBED BY PARENTS
<p><strong>In summary:</strong><br />
Both parents and pupils of Precious Top Talents Academy are yet to come to terms with the shut -down of their favourite institution.</p>
<p>Their faith in their school is built on a solid rock and nothing can keep them away, not even imminent death.</p>
<p>They, therefore, camp outside the collapsed school waiting to see whether the school will be re-opened despite Professor Magoha’s directive to have their kids transferred to other neighbouring schools.</p>
<p>UNWAVERING FAITH</p>
<p>Parents and pupils of Precious Top Talents Academy in Nairobi are yet to believe that their beloved institution is no more.</p>
<p>Consequently, they camp outside the ruins of the collapsed building as they await word from the Ministry of Education regarding the re-opening of the school.</p>
<p>This is in spite of the numerous injuries incurred by the children and the trauma that those who witnessed the tragedy must be going through.</p>
<p>One of the standard eight pupils confessed that although she narrowly escaped death, her ardent desire is to remain and hold on to her favourite institution- Precious Top Talents.</p>
<p>She prefers remaining in the institution to being transferred to other institutions.</p>
<p>Kerubo, the pupil is not alone.</p>
<p>Many parents say that they want their children to continue schooling at the school even though the school building collapsed, killing eight children.</p>
<p>One week after the tragedy, the visitors are served with heavily guarded wooden doors.</p>
<p>The pupils’ belonging, mostly bags lay haphazardly on desks inside the heavily secured classrooms.</p>
<p>The adamant parents and their children who crowded outside the building demanded for their books and other learning materials.</p>
<p><strong>AN ICON</strong><br />
For many residents in Ngando area, Precious Top Talents remains an icon and a resolution to their education quest.</p>
<p>This is due to the school’s exemplary performance, affordability and accessibility.</p>
<p>The school charges approximately sh 21 000 per annum.</p>
<p><strong>PUBLIC SCHOOLS PHOBIA</strong><br />
The parents have further pointed a finger at Professor George Magoha, the CS for Education for hurriedly transferring their children to public primary schools whose performance is wanting, way below par.</p>
<p>For them, Ngong Forest Primary, Jamhuri and Riruta can never surpass the collapsed school in terms of performance.</p>
<p>They also cited the long-distance challenge since their children will be obliged to trek for almost three kilometres to their new learning stations.</p>
<p>The parents also expressed fear that their children are likely to be susceptible to security threats as they traverse the vast Ngong’Forest.</p>
<p><strong>MAKE-SHIFT CLASSROOMS</strong><br />
One of the parents, Mr Nyabuto even suggested that the school should be allowed to build make-shift classrooms as they wait for a more permanent solution to the entire stalemate.</p>
<p>This is because the learners had a close bond, something close to covalent among themselves and with their instructors. Therefore, splitting them will greatly affect their overall performance.</p>
<p>Against all odds, the school is known for posting excellent academic results during national examinations. Many candidates attain over 400 out of 500 marks.</p>
<p><strong>WITCH-HUNT</strong><br />
The parents have also cited witch-hunt on the side of the government since there are many poorly constructed schools which have not been targeted.</p>
<p>In response to these allegations, Professor Magoha said that the parents were being incited by politicians to remain adamant.</p>

ASO MTU, ANA MUNGU: PROFESSOR MAGOHA FACES THE WRATH OF PARENTS
<p><strong>IN SUMMARY:</strong><br />
Parents of the collapsed school demonstrate demanding for the release of their teacher</p>
<p>They blamed the government of using the accident to intimidate the teacher.<br />
The angry parents also accused Professor Magoha of being indifferent to their children’s plight.</p>
<p> ;</p>
<p>Aggrieved parents of Precious Top Talents Academy camped outside the Kibera Law Court demanding for the release of their esteemed teacher.</p>
<p>They thronged the building while carrying posters to show their solidarity and support for Mr Moses wainaina.</p>
<p>“Moses is not a murderer since his line of duty is teaching, not architecture,” they said.</p>
<p>The proprietor who is also a teacher was arrested on Thursday following the collapse of part of the school building which killed eight pupils and left several others injured.</p>
<p><strong>INTIMIDATION CLAIMS</strong><br />
The parents further blamed the state of intimidation and opportunism. According to them, the government was taking advantage of the accident to intimidate and harass Moses Wainaina.</p>
<p>Mr Wainaina who was arrested on Thursday evening is held at the Kabete Police Station.</p>
<p>After all, is it not the government’s duty to ensure that all school structures meet the set standards?</p>
<p>Mr Wainaina was arrested for violating the guidelines set to govern schools.<br />
Among other offences, he was accused of enrolling a very high number of pupils and lack of safe physical facilities and employing non-qualified teaching staff.</p>
<p>The school is duly registered to admit 340 learners but the proprietor has disregarded this guideline and admitted 800 pupils.</p>
<p>According to Professor Magoha, lack of compliance renders the registration of the facility null and void.</p>
<p><strong>DO NOT GAG US</strong><br />
A section of parents of Precious Top Talents Academy in Nairobi have accused Professor George Magoha of indifference to their children’s plight.</p>
<p>What aggrieves them most is the directive given by Professor Magoha forcing them to have their children transferred to Ngong’ Forest Primary School, Jamhuri Primary School and Riruta Satellite Primary School.</p>
<p>The closure of the collapsed school was based on the recommendations given by the task force that was set up to determine the safety of pupils following the tragedy.</p>
<p>The parents carried placards in front of former Premier, Raila Odinga Racecourse as they aired their complaints.</p>
<p>They demanded to have their collapsed school reopened and Moses Wainaina, the school proprietor to be released.</p>
<p>They said that Moses Wainaina’s forte is teaching, not architecture.</p>

NO MORE QUEUES AT THE TSC
<p><strong>In summary:</strong><br />
The Teachers Service Commission in Kenya plans to digitize the files of all Kenyan teachers.</p>
<p>This will make storage and retrieval of teachers’ files easier.</p>
<p>This digital process encompasses a bulk SMS system for supervision of learners by both teachers and parents.</p>
<p>DIGITAL TSC</p>
<p>The Teachers Service Commission has kicked off the process of digitizing teachers’ information to enhance the efficiency and security of their high profile data.</p>
<p>The TSC director in charge of quality assurance, Reuben Nthambuiri has confirmed this.</p>
<p>He said that the system will be put in place as from November this year.</p>
<p>Nthambuiri further lauded the new digital system saying it will ease the hectic and rigorous procedures that teachers and other stakeholders have had to bear trying to retrieve their files.</p>
<p>He further added that digitization was a fame Fatale, a necessary evil if the system must run without any hiccups.</p>
<p><strong>LOST FILES</strong><br />
Many a time, Kenyan teachers have been frustrated at the Teachers Service Commission headquarters following lost files.</p>
<p>The most interesting bit of it all is the miraculous resurfacing of the lost file after a teacher parts with two or three thousand shillings.</p>
<p>This declaration, therefore, is a big relieve especially for teachers because they will no longer fall prey to the numerous vultures who are masquerading as faithful “servants” at the TSC headquarters.</p>
<p>Nthambuiri broke the great news when he spoke at Bomet during the TSC open day.</p>
<p>The function brought together five counties.</p>
<p><strong>UNDERSTAFFING</strong><br />
Speaking at the function, Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok requested the TSC to deploy more teachers to the county since Bomet was understaffed.</p>
<p>He also backed up the whole idea of digitization saying that this is the right time to go digital given that the government has already rolled out the new Competency-Based Curriculum, CBC.</p>
<p><strong>IN PART:</strong><br />
PRECIOUS TALENTS’ PARENTS DEMAND FOR THE RELEASE OF THEIR TEACHER</p>
<p><strong>In Summary</strong><br />
Parents of Precious Talents Academy school parents have demanded the release of their teacher.</p>
<p>They say that he should not bear the blunt for he is not the architect of the collapsed building, his line of duty was teaching.</p>
<p>They have also raised eyebrows regarding the transfer of their children to schools in Ngong’ Forest citing high insecurity levels.</p>
<p>They carried posters in support of their arrested teacher and camped outside the Kibera law court yesterday.</p>
<p>A section of parents adamantly camped outside the Kibera law court and demanded for the release of their teacher.</p>
<p>The teacher who is also the owner of the Precious Top Talents Academy, Mr Moses Wainaina was arrested after part of the school collapsed claiming eight lives. Scores of other pupils sustained injuries.</p>
<p>The aggrieved parents accused the government of using the accident to intimidate and harass the school proprietor.</p>
<p>They also faulted the CS for Education Professor George Magoha for forcefully transferring their children to schools which have been posting very poor results.</p>
<p>Parents hence queried the motives behind Professor Magoha’s directive.</p>
<p>Besides, they complained of the torture that their children will be subjected to for they will have to trek for a very long distance to their new school (s).</p>
<p>This long trek is likely to put their children at the risk of wild animals and sex predators.</p>

DR. LYDIA NZOMO BREAKS SILENCE ABOUT CBC
<p><strong>In summary:</strong><br />
Last year’s winner of the Principal of the Year Award (POYA) in Eastern Region Ms Florence Igweta has received her award.</p>
<p>She is the principal of Chuka Girls High School located in Tharaka Nithi County.</p>
<p>The Teachers Service Commission’s third annual open day was held at Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County.</p>
<p>The forum brought together all education stakeholders from four counties.</p>
<p>Dr Lydia Nzomo, the TSC chair said that the commission is willing to promote the integration of ICT in its system to enhance quality learning in Kenyan schools.</p>
<p>Its major focus is the installation of biometric attendance registers for both learners and teachers in schools.</p>
<p>She also urged education stakeholders especially teachers to embrace the new Competency-Based Curriculum.</p>
<p><strong>TSC ON NEW CURRICULUM</strong><br />
Dr Lydia Nzomo, who is the Teachers Service Commission chair, has reiterated the need for teachers and all education stakeholders to embrace the new Competency-Based Curriculum.</p>
<p>She was speaking yesterday during the Teachers Service Commission’s third annual open day which was held at Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County.</p>
<p>She further said that CBC plays an indispensable role in equipping learners with practical knowledge, skills and values aimed at solving real-life challenges.</p>
<p>The forum whose theme was “Integrating Technology and Innovation for Quality Teaching” involved key education stakeholders from four counties.<br />
These are Tharaka Nithi, Kirinyaga, Embu and Meru.</p>
<p><strong>CBC TEACHER TRAINING</strong><br />
On CBC teacher training, Dr Nzomo said that the commission had trained 181 master trainers who had in turn trained 1, 165 CBC curriculum support officers- teacher trainers in preparation for a successful implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum.</p>
<p>1, 320 CBC champions have also been trained as teacher trainers by the master trainers.</p>
<p>So far, 159, 810 teachers have been equipped with adequate knowledge and skills to effectively implement CBC.</p>
<p>More teachers are scheduled to be trained during the December Holidays.</p>
<p><strong>CBC GRADE FOUR TEXTBOOKS</strong><br />
The fear surrounding inadequate learning materials especially Grade four textbooks has been waning following the announcement of seven firms that have won the tender to publish the aforementioned texts.</p>
<p>The firms are expected to print 16 million books for 14 subjects. Among the 7 firms is the Kenya Literature Bureau which will print three textbooks, Longhorn Publishers- two textbooks and Oxford University Press-two textbooks.</p>
<p><strong>POYA AWARD</strong><br />
The 2018 POYA in Eastern Region winner has received her prize. She was presented the coveted award by the TSC chairperson Dr Lydia Nzomo at Chuka University in Tharaka-Nithi County.</p>
<p>The 2019 Principal of the Year Award is Ms Jane Waceke. She is the head of Othaya Girls.</p>
<p>Ms Waceke was announced as the winner during the Kenya Secondary School Heads Conference in Mombasa this year.</p>
<p>Her win was closely attributed to her excellent administrative skills and the ability to integrate the use of innovation and technology to promote learning.</p>
<p>Ms Waceke has also given back to the society by training neighbouring schools from remote areas on how to effectively use ICT in learning.</p>
<p>She has also introduced an electronic learning popularly known as e-learning within the school.</p>
<p>She is 48 years old and hails from Karatina.</p>

PROFESSOR GEORGE MAGOHA SHUTS DOWN UNSAFE SCHOOLS
<p><strong>In summary</strong><br />
The Ministry of education yesterday shut down and relocated 207 learners from an unsafe structure.</p>
<p>The 207 were pupils of St. Catherine’s Children Education centre Bombolulu located in Kibera.</p>
<p>St. Catherine’s Children Education centre Bombolulu had not been duly registered or approved by the Ministry of Education.</p>
<p>They were moved to a nearby primary school, Ayany.</p>
<p>Professor Magoha has also directed his team to shut down all schools that have not been registered or approved by the ministry.</p>
<p><strong>THE SHUTDOWN</strong><br />
Professor George Magoha has cracked the whip on schools whose structures do not meet the set building standards.</p>
<p>This he did amid protests from the school owners who feel that the move will cripple their pockets.</p>
<p>The stern CS, however, does not give a hoot given that human life, which is at stake, is invaluable.</p>
<p>He further added that he is acting in the best interest of the Kenyan children.</p>
<p>The shutdown of the building which was being used as a school was mandatory given that its standards did not surpass the poor structure of Top Talents Academy which collapsed on Monday and claimed 8 lives of innocent pupils in Dagoretti.</p>
<p>The no-nonsense professor Magoha also issued a threat about more el-Ninos that shall follow.</p>
<p>He said this was the beginning of a revolution for the ministry will shut down all schools across the nation whose structures are poorly made.</p>
<p><strong>CONGESTION FEARS</strong></p>
<p>This move comes a few days after eight learners died while 69 were injured following a two-storey building that collapsed at Precious Top Talents School in Nairobi.</p>
<p>The CS calmed the nerves of the transferred pupils’ fears of congestion.<br />
He assured them that Ayany Primary School had enough extra space to accommodate the 207 pupils.</p>
<p>Magoha also promised to support Ayany Primary School. He said the Kenyan government will provide basic learning materials to facilitate a smooth transition and learning.</p>
<p><strong>SAFETY FIRST</strong><br />
Magoha also pledged to continue keeping Kenyan children safe. He reiterated that the safety of learners will not be traded for money or profit.</p>
<p>He said the burden of finding another school will not be transferred to the parents. He shall take full responsibility for the whole matter.</p>
<p>The CS further argued that even if some stakeholders such as parents and proprietors of the schools may neither be happy nor supportive of his step, he will not be compelled to risk lives further.</p>
<p>The affected proprietor of the shutdown institution is under a thorough investigation. A detailed report will be issued by Monday next week.</p>
<p><strong>PRECIOUS TOP TALENTS SCHOOL</strong><br />
On the ominous school that collapsed on Monday, the CS is yet to decide the fate of the school. He says the ministry will give a directive on Monday as to whether the school will be re-opened or not.</p>
<p>KUPPET chair Omboko Milemba also insinuated that its neighbour, Lenana School owns a huge tract of land which it can share with Precious Top Talents Academy so that the pupils will have ample learning space.</p>
<p>He said this when he attended the memorial service of the fallen young heroes held at Precious Top Talents School yesterday.</p>
<p>John Kiarie the Dagoretti Member of Parliament also reassured parents that all funeral expenses will be taken care of by the government.</p>

KNUT CHAIR SUMMONED OVER CONTEMPT OF COURT
<p><strong>In summary</strong></p>
<p>Two key officials, who are entangled in KNUT supremacy battles, have been ordered to appear in court and respond to contempt of court charges.</p>
<p>These are the current KNUT chair and registrar of trade unions.</p>
<p>This followed the court’s historic ruling yesterday which dismissed the oust of KNUT’s Secretary General Wilson Sossion as illegal.</p>
<p><strong>OMUCHENYI SUMMONED</strong><br />
KNUT chairperson Wyckliffe Omuchenyi has been summoned before the court to explain why he defied and disregarded a court order which directed him to allow Wilson Sossion to continue serving as the Secretary-General of KNUT.</p>
<p>The employment and labour relations court found the aforementioned key officials guilty of contempt of court for going against court orders which were given on 28th August 2019.</p>
<p>The two are expected to explain why the wheel of justice must not turn.</p>
<p>Judge Byrum Ongaya had on 28th August halted the convening of KNUT’S executive council meeting which had been scheduled for 29th August.</p>
<p>This is because the meeting aimed to oust Sossion.</p>
<p><strong>SOSSION&#8217;S &#8220;MISDEMEANOUR&#8221;</strong><br />
Sossion’s deputy Mr Hesborn Otieno has however sworn an affidavit saying that the meeting held by NEC as per the constitution of the union.</p>
<p>The council thus resolved to remove Sossion based on gross misconduct.</p>
<p>Some of the allegations levelled against Mr Sossion include:</p>
<p>1. Sacking full-time employees without consulting NEC.</p>
<p>2. Sending full-time employees on compulsory leave.</p>
<p>3. Issuing strike notices before consulting the relevant stakeholders.</p>
<p>4. Recruitment of full-time employees single-handedly.</p>
<p>5. Ignoring decisions made by NEC and failure to implement them.</p>
<p>Mr Sossion, therefore, challenged the move to throw him out of the KNUT union and was temporarily reinstated as the secretary-general.</p>
<p>He further added that only the annual delegates’ conference, which will be held in December, has the mandate to remove him from office.</p>
<p><strong>IN PART:</strong><br />
<strong>PROPOSED SOCIAL MEDIA REGULATION BILL IS UNCALLED FOR</strong><br />
Moses Injendi, a Malava Member of Parliament has sponsored a bill which seeks to curtail the freedom of speech that Kenyans have been enjoying.</p>
<p>The proposed bill requires blogs, facebook and WhatsApp groups to be duly registered.</p>
<p>Besides, the aforementioned groups should pay a given fee for licenses, regulate content and only approve adults to join these groups.</p>
<p>The bill further tightens the nut. Failure to comply attracts a penalty of sh 200,000 or imprisonment for a year.</p>
<p>Those found posting “dirty” or “horrific” content online shall pay a penalty of Sh 500,000 or a two-year jail term.<br />
This bill aims to limit social media ch</p>
<p>annels, the only platforms where Kenyans can interact freely without fear of intimidation.</p>
<p>If the bill passes for a law, it will bring forth a very huge setback in the development of democracy.</p>
<p>It is also likely to promote a monopoly of information. Surely, can’t Kenyans for once have something worth celebrating?</p>
<p>Kenyans will not like to walk down the path of its neighbour Tanzania.</p>
<p>In 2015, Tanzania came up with a Cybercrimes Law which was aimed at curbing cybercrimes.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, the law has been used against the very citizens that it seeks to protect.</p>
<p>It has been used to perpetuate oppression by silencing dissenting voices, journalists and anyone who dares question government decisions or policies.</p>
<p>The big question is, are Kenyan’s ready to repress their independent opinions and feelings?</p>

THIS IS WHY KENYAN TEACHERS SHOULD DATE AND MARRY THEIR COLLEAGUES
<p>In summary</p>
<p>There will be no transfers for teachers with extreme medical conditions.</p>
<p>Teachers who have attained the age of 56 years will also be spared.</p>
<p>Teachers’ unions KNUT and KUPPET have however opposed this announcement.</p>
<p> ;</p>
<p>The TSC CEO Dr Nancy Macharia has made a grand announcement.<br />
She has said that there will be no transfers for all teachers who are married to their colleagues.</p>
<p>She further added that in the process of undertaking delocalization, TSC has got a policy regarding the teacher’s family.</p>
<p>According to this policy, the term family refers to a teacher to teacher marriage.</p>
<p>She revealed the news yesterday when she appeared before the National Assembly’s Committee on Education.</p>
<p><strong>FRESH BATTLEFIELDS</strong><br />
This directive has however sparked emotions from the teachers’ unions.</p>
<p>It is therefore likely to invite trouble and fresh battlegrounds between the TSC and unionists.</p>
<p>KNUT and KUPPET have been on the forefront in the fight against the whole process of delocalization of teachers.</p>
<p><strong>PRESIDENT UHURU’S VIEWS ON DELOCALIZATION</strong><br />
Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta on 19th August had directed the Teachers Service Commission to go slow on the transfer of teachers.</p>
<p>He suggested that these transfers are likely to destabilize the families of Kenyan teachers.</p>
<p>The Teachers Service Commission, however, ignored the president’s views and transferred teachers indiscriminately.</p>
<p>In December 2018, the TSC transferred 3, 094 teachers despite bitter protests.</p>
<p><strong>SPECIAL TEACHERS</strong><br />
Dr Macharia also said that teachers with serious medical conditions and those who have attained the age of 56 years will be spared.</p>
<p>Following a court order stopping the transfer of teachers, it is only the newly recruited teachers who are eligible for transfers from now onwards.</p>
<p>Mr Sossion yesterday made it clear that no teacher family is special.</p>
<p>He further accused the commission of implementing a discriminative policy on what constitutes a family and ignoring the President’s directive last year.</p>
<p><strong>KUPPET’S TAKE</strong><br />
KUPPET’s secretary-general Akello Misori has also joined its sister union KNUT to oppose the TSC policy.</p>
<p>The Teachers Service Commission had introduced the delocalization programme in 2017 and so far 8, 000 teachers have been transferred.</p>
<p><strong>TROUBLED FAMILIES</strong><br />
The delocalization policy has been marred with severe criticism from the teachers affected.</p>
<p>They feel alienated from their families and in some cases, this delocalization has led to divorce and separation.</p>
<p>The greatest challenge posed by the policy is the long distance. Teachers are forced to work very far away from their home counties making it impossible for them to enjoy quality time with their spouses.</p>
<p>The policy was however implemented irrespective of the acute shortage of teachers in Kenya’s public schools.</p>
<p>The commission has also been through murky waters when Kenyan teachers serving the North Eastern Counties fled Mandera, Garissa and Wajir counties due to terror attacks and hostility emanating from locals.</p>
<p>several teachers were shot dead by Al-Shabaab militia on their way home after schools closed.</p>
<p><strong>TUTORS</strong><br />
Dr. Nancy Macharia in 2018- May released new guidelines for tutors.</p>
<p>According to the policy, tutors are expected to serve for at least five years in the counties they get posted to before seeking for transfers to their preferred work stations.</p>

SOSSION IS BACK! HATERS CAN GO HANG.
<p><strong>In summary:</strong><br />
The Kenya National Union of Teachers Secretary General Wilson Sossion will remain in office.</p>
<p>This decision was arrived at by the labour court.</p>
<p>The labour court also said that Mr Sossion will continue serving in his capacity until a general election is conducted to replace him.</p>
<p>Judge Hellen Wasilwa said that the malicious meeting convened to advocate for his oust was illegal and in contempt of court.</p>
<p>Mr Sossion had been ousted following his “unbecoming conduct”.</p>
<p>COURT&#8217;S RULING</p>
<p>Mr Wilson Sossion is an elated man following a court ruling which reinstated him fully as the KNUT Secretary-General.</p>
<p>The court said that Sossion will continue serving in his full capacity until he is legally replaced through an election held by the parties involved.</p>
<p>Sossion’s wish to have all KNUT union’s bank transactions conducted without his consultation was also granted.</p>
<p><strong>SOSSION’S RIVAL</strong><br />
Sossion’s fierce competitor Hesbon Otieno claims that on 29th August 2019, a meeting convened by KNUT through its NEC members decided to expel the secretary-general.</p>
<p>He further added that the meeting was convened under the union’s constitution.</p>
<p>The resolve to oust Mr Sossion was arrived at following extensive consultations between all the 29 members.</p>
<p><strong>SOSSION’S GROSS MISCONDUCT</strong><br />
The following accusations bordering on gross misconduct were levelled against the embattled KNUT secretary</p>
<p>1. Sacking full-time employees without consulting NEC.</p>
<p>2. Sending full-time employees on compulsory leave.</p>
<p>3. Issuing strike notices before consulting the relevant stakeholders.</p>
<p>4. Recruitment of full-time employees single-handedly.</p>
<p>5. Ignoring decisions made by NEC and failure to implement them.</p>
<p><strong>THE RED BUTTON</strong><br />
The nominated ODM Member of Parliament has refuted claims that 90, 000 KNUT members had pressed the red button- left the union.</p>
<p>He also trashed the claim that 18, 000 KNUT members had abandoned the union for their rival union KUPPET. He says that this was a narrative that was being spun to kick him out of office.</p>
<p><strong>WITHHELD KNUT FUNDS</strong></p>
<p>Mr Sossion further cited outright bullying and mistreatment of KNUT members by the Teachers Service Commission.</p>
<p>According to Sossion, their members were denied their rightful dues amounting to Kshs 10, 000.</p>
<p>This was part of the second phase of the salary increment. The members were then persuaded to press the red button if they wanted to receive their dues.</p>
<p>More reports also indicate that the union has not received its Sh 140 million, a move that has greatly paralyzed union activities.</p>
<p><strong>SOSSION’S FATE</strong><br />
Mr Sossion’s fate will be fully determined on Friday. The court is expected to determine whether he can hold two positions simultaneously – serving as the Kenya National Union of Teachers’ Secretary-General and as an Orange Democratic Movement nominated Member of Parliament.</p>
<p>The case against the KNUT Secretary General Mr Sossion was filed by seven teachers.</p>
<p>The labour court’s ruling on Friday very crucial for it will shape the politics of KNUT union’s leadership.</p>
<p>The Employment and Labour Relations Court is also expected to give a ruling on the conditions surrounding the removal of Mr Sossion from office and whether the NEC members were given orders to halt the meeting.</p>

PROFESSOR MAGOHA REVEALS OFFICIAL SCHOOL HOURS FOR LEARNERS
<p><strong>In summary</strong><br />
The education cabinet secretary Professor George Magoha yesterday gave a directive to all schools in Kenya to observe the official reporting and departure time for learners.</p>
<p>He reiterated that all schools whether public or private must comply with the official school hours.</p>
<p>He said this when he visited the tragic scene at Precious Talents Top Academy yesterday where a building collapsed, killing at least seven pupils.</p>
<p>The school building collapsed at around 8.00 A.M. as the upper primary pupils-standard 5-8 were beginning their morning lessons.</p>
<p><strong>BURDENED LEARNERS</strong><br />
The Kenyan government in 2015 issued an official gazette notice directing schools on official operating hours.</p>
<p>This was done after the government realized that schools were burdening learners by putting undue pressure on them to report to school early.</p>
<p>This further subjected the learners to more mental torture following extensive teaching.</p>
<p><strong>OFFICIAL LEARNING HOURS</strong><br />
According to the Basic Education Act regulations (2015),<br />
The official operating hours for all public and private institutions is 8.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.</p>
<p>The official learning days shall be on Monday- Friday.</p>
<p>Co-curricular activities shall be carried out as from 3.30 p.m. to 4.45 p.m.<br />
No day schools should oblige learners to report before 7.15 a.m.</p>
<p><strong>BOARDING SCHOOLS</strong><br />
All boarding schools will operate as follows:<br />
Official learning hours shall be 8.00 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.</p>
<p>Co-curricular activities should be conducted from 3.30 p.m. to 4.45 p.m.</p>
<p>As from 5.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. learners shall engage in their self-directed activities for normal school days</p>
<p>Monday to Friday preps shall run as from 7.30-9.30 p.m.</p>
<p>The learners are expected to have a good sleep from 9.30 p.m. &#8211; 6.00 a.m.</p>
<p>Supervised routine activities like washing and cleaning should be done as from 6.00 a.m.-8.00 a.m.</p>
<p>No boarding learning facility should send away unaccompanied learners after 9.00 a.m.</p>
<p><strong>CONDOLENCES</strong><br />
Meanwhile, President Uhuru Kenyatta has joined Kenyans in sending his deepest sympathies to families and friends of the fallen heroes of Precious Talents Top Academy in Dagoretti.</p>
<p>Professor George Magoha has also conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families and friend aggrieved by yesterday’s disaster that claimed seven innocent lives.</p>
<p>He did this on behalf of the government and his behalf. The seven were pupils of Precious Talent Primary School in Nairobi.</p>
<p>He further says that he was on official duty in Kisumu when he got wind of the tragedy.</p>
<p><strong>THE PRECIOUS TALENTS TOP PRIMARY SCHOOL TRAGEDY</strong><br />
He regrets the loss of seven pupils whose future was promising.<br />
Sixty-four survivors of the tragedy are still admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital.</p>
<p>Sixty-two of these learners have got soft tissue injuries while two pupils need more specialized medical care.</p>
<p>At least 600 pupils have undergone safety checks at St. Mary’s Catholic Centre to ensure they are of sound health.</p>
<p>The government officials who visited KNH yesterday have confirmed that the learners admitted at the hospital are in a stable condition.</p>
<p>The school is officially registered and has an enrollment of 800 pupils.</p>
<p>In the meantime, the rest of the pupils are expected to stay at home for the next four days as the government puts in place special measures to ensure safety within the learning facility.</p>

THE AFTER-MATH OF GRADE THREE ASSESSMENT TEST
<p><strong>In summary:</strong><br />
All pupils who are currently undertaking this test shall be promoted to Grade 4 next year. No pupil will be forced to repeat for being a failure.</p>
<p>The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) is collecting data from all schools across the country to inform its future policies.</p>
<p>The Ministry of Education has finally given the long-awaited for maiden remarks about the ongoing Grade three CBC assessment tests. These examinations kicked off last week amidst a few bottle-necks.</p>
<p>Some of the major challenges voiced by teachers include overwhelming numbers of pupils and inadequate examination materials.</p>
<p>Besides, teachers have also argued that the tests are too shallow. They may thus not fully depict the true picture of the learners’ skills and competencies.</p>
<p><strong>GRADE THREE CBC RESULTS</strong><br />
Parents and teachers should not expect the results of individual learners as in the case of KCPE and KCSE.</p>
<p>Furthermore, there will be neither result slips nor report cards showing the learners’ progress.</p>
<p>Kenyan schools will not also be ranked using the ongoing Monitoring Learners’ Progress (MLP).</p>
<p>All pupils will proceed to Grade four. The examinations will not be used as a pass mark to the next level of learning.</p>
<p><strong>DEADLINE</strong><br />
Dr Belio Kipsang announced that all the assessment tests should be completed by 25th October 2019.</p>
<p>Moreover, the teachers are free to administer these tests at their own pace as long as they wind up before the term elapses.</p>
<p>According to Dr Belio, the monitoring and assessment of learners shall continue throughout the learning process.</p>
<p><strong>EVALUATION</strong><br />
The teacher in charge is responsible for the assessment of the learners’ competencies. S/ he will judge whether the learner has achieved or exceeded expectations.</p>
<p>Their evaluation will be objective since it is based on MLP tasks provided by KNEC.</p>
<p>These tasks are sourced from the Grade three portal on the KNEC website.</p>
<p><strong>TEACHER TRAINING</strong><br />
It was further confirmed that all teachers handling lower grades have undergone training in CBC implementation and MLP. This training was undertaken during the April and August holidays.</p>
<p>More in-service training is scheduled for the December holidays.<br />
Secondary school teachers will also undergo rigorous training in preparation for a soft landing of learners who will proceed to junior secondary at Grade 7.</p>
<p><strong>SPECIAL NEEDS LEARNERS</strong><br />
The competency-based curriculum has not shut the doors for physically and mentally challenged learners.</p>
<p>Those learners with visual, physical or hearing impairment who have been incorporated into the “normal” classroom will be monitored using flexible activities which vary based on their incapacitation.</p>
<p>Special need learners in special schools will be monitored by the use of special tailor-made tools in social activities. This will give them an anchor in life as it will help them lead a normal life and promote positive interaction between them and their peers.</p>
<p><strong>KNUT’S STAND</strong><br />
The ongoing assessment test is a clear proof of the CBC roll out despite KNUT’s opposition.</p>
<p>KNUT, through its Secretary-General then had claimed that the rollout of the competency-based curriculum is illegal and a blatant violation of the Kenyan Constitution.</p>
<p>The union also accused the Ministry of Education of failure to fully involve all education stakeholders.</p>

FIVE KCSE CANDIDATES FACE EXPULSION THREATS OVER ILLUMINATI CLAIMS
<p>In Summary<br />
Elgeyo Marakwet County is on the spot this week for all the wrong reasons.</p>
<p>Anin Girls Secondary school, in Elgeyo Marakwet County, is a troubled institution.</p>
<p>The school is longer a haven for our daughters following claims of Illuminati links.</p>
<p>The school administration has been accused of suspending five girls indefinitely on 25th June this year for being involved in Illuminati escapades.</p>
<p>The five students are yet to resume studies barely a month to the life-defining Kenya Certificate of Secondary School examinations (KCSE).</p>
<p><strong>EVIDENCE</strong><br />
Given the mysterious nature of Illuminati, the school has since failed to gather enough evidence to justify these claims. but how can you prove that a student is involved in nocturnal activities unless you are a teacher come bat?</p>
<p>You just need a little faith in the existence of supernatural black magic powers.After all, we need not evidence to prove that Beyonce or Michael Jackson had a dance with the devil.</p>
<p><strong>THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME</strong><br />
One of the affected candidates claims that the school chaplain made startling allegations on 24th June 2019 when he was attending a Christian Religious Education lesson.</p>
<p>He must have been revising St. Luke’s Gospel- Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah</p>
<p>“The spirit of the Lord is upon me for he has sent me to set the captives free and declare the year of favour upon them.” So how could the chaplain not set free these Illuminati-bound captives masquerading as KCSE candidates?</p>
<p>The affected candidate says that the chaplain, led by the power of the holy ghost’ came to their class and declared that two or three students were devil worshippers.</p>
<p>The candidate simply ignored the remarks knowing that she can never be part of the black sheep kingdom.</p>
<p><strong>DRAMATIC TWIST</strong><br />
Unfortunately, the chaplain’s “wild accusations” attracted a rather unpleasant result.</p>
<p>When the school principal Esther Kibor got wind of the matter, the five Illuminati culprits were obliged to discontinue their studies till now.</p>
<p>A disciplinary committee meeting was summoned the following day and the candidates were directed to go home, accompanied by their parents, and wait for official communication from the school administration.</p>
<p>They are yet to be recalled to resume studies by the school principal.</p>
<p><strong>CONFISCATED TEXTBOOKS</strong><br />
Following these Illuminati claims, another candidate claims that all their textbooks were confiscated.</p>
<p>This has made it extremely difficult for them to prepare adequately for their examinations since they were only allowed to take their exercise books only.</p>
<p><strong>NOT MY CANDIDATES</strong><br />
Attempts to delve deeper into these claims proved futile. When contacted, the school principal MS Kibor kept mum assuming the “No comment” kind of attitude.</p>
<p>She further disowned the students saying that there are no such candidates in her school.</p>
<p>The school management board chair Mr Andrew Kipchoge, however, acknowledged saying he is fully aware of this matter.<br />
He further added that the accused owned Illuminati-rel</p>
<p>ated paraphernalia. He could not, however, give a detailed explanation of these “tools of work.”</p>
<p><strong>THREATS</strong><br />
The students have since threatened to cause havoc and summon hell upon teachers for suspending them. Some of the candidates sent menacing text messages to some teachers, the school chaplain included.</p>
<p>The matter has been referred to the DCI. Though they feel like vitreous, I hope that their “dance with the devil” will not land them into trouble.</p>