Students in Ndhiwa Sub-County are being encouraged to look beyond their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) grades, following a two-day career and educational guidance programme aimed at opening pathways to higher education and technical training.
The initiative, led by education stakeholders, brought together learners who completed Form Four last year across the newly enacted Ndhiwa East and Ndhiwa West sub-counties, which were hived from the former larger Ndhiwa Sub County.
The annual education workshop organised by the former basic education Principal S, Dr. Julius Jwan, focuses on equipping students with information on career choices, available courses, and government funding opportunities.
Speaking on the second day of the career choice workshop in Ndhiwa town yesterday, Jwan emphasised that many students often feel lost after completing secondary school due to lack of guidance.
He noted that misconceptions about academic performance, particularly among those who score lower grades, have hindered progression to tertiary education.
“Whether a student scored an A or an E, there is still an opportunity to apply through the KUCCPS portal and access government-sponsored education,” he said, adding that they wanted to ensure that no learner is left behind due to lack of information.
Jwan added that students can pursue various pathways, including technical and vocational training, where they can progress from artisan to advanced levels, potentially reaching doctoral studies.
Professor Dr. Charles Ong’ondo, who represented the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), underscored the importance of linking basic education with tertiary opportunities.
He highlighted that curricula developed by KICD continue to support both secondary and technical education institutions.
“It is critical that learners understand how their basic education connects to future training and careers. Communities across the country are beginning to organise such forums, and it is important that Ndhiwa keeps pace,” he implied.
Ong’ondo cautioned against distractions such as political activities, urging communities to prioritize the future of their children through education and informed decision-making.
Religious leaders also lend their support to the programme. Bishop Dr. Peter Midodo, representing the interfaith community, described the initiative as transformative, particularly for students who fall below university entry requirements.
“This programme is a lifeline. It creates awareness for students who might otherwise believe their future has ended due to low grades. Even those with disabilities now have opportunities they were previously unaware of,” he said.
Midodo cited a case of a visually impaired student who, through the programme, successfully enrolled in a technical institution, demonstrating the initiative’s growing impact.
Parents and students expressed appreciation for the guidance provided.
Pamela Otieno, a recent KCSE candidate, appreciated the guidance, saying the programme had changed her perspective on education opportunities.
“We have learnt that regardless of your grade, you can still pursue your dreams,” she said. “I scored a B+ and hope to join university to study education.”
By Sitna Omar
