Parents have been urged to nurture their children’s talents and ambitions beyond academic performance as schools embrace the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.
The call was made during a PP2 graduation ceremony at Naathu Junior School in Igembe North, Meru County, where education stakeholders stressed the need for parents, teachers and communities to work together to help learners realise their potential.
Josphat Michubu, chairperson of the school, said parents should guide children in identifying their strengths rather than imposing career choices on them, noting that education remained a valuable investment in their future.
He urged parents to support learners from early childhood through university, adding that access to books, technology and mentorship could help them explore opportunities beyond conventional academic pathways.
Michubu also called for stronger community involvement in protecting vulnerable children, particularly those at risk of dropping out of school following the loss of their parents.
He urged local leaders, women’s groups and other community organisations to support disadvantaged learners through mentorship, fundraising and other interventions.
Naathu Junior School headteacher Amos Kithure Mbaabu said the school would recognise achievements beyond academic performance, noting that CBE provided an opportunity to identify and nurture children’s individual abilities.
He cited athletics as an example of how talent could open doors to success, urging parents to help children develop their abilities instead of judging them solely by their academic results.
Former headteacher Japhet Kirimi challenged parents to help learners set goals, identify their areas of strength and develop discipline and persistence.
He advised families to establish study timetables during school holidays, balancing academic work with domestic responsibilities to ensure children remain engaged in learning.
He further urged parents to motivate their children and provide consistent guidance as they pursue their ambitions.
Edward Murithi, a parent, acknowledged the financial sacrifices families make to educate their children, saying the investment could create opportunities for future generations.
He appealed to the community to help children who had dropped out of school after losing their parents, stressing the importance of collective support in helping them resume their studies.
Rev. Denis Mwenda commended parents, teachers and other stakeholders for supporting the school throughout the academic year, describing education as a shared responsibility.
He urged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s lives, saying their role extended beyond paying school fees and providing learning materials.
Mwenda also cautioned parents to remain vigilant during the long school holiday by monitoring their children’s whereabouts, friendships and activities while serving as role models.
The speakers further urged the community to protect children from early marriage and premature entry into the workforce, warning that such practices could undermine their educational and personal development.
by Kamanja Maeria and Brenda Gakii
