It was moved forward to as early as Monday, June 24 in response to planned protests against the Finance Bill 2024 set for Tuesday, June 25.
Several schools across the country have begun to release students for half-term break earlier than expected. The break was originally meant to commence on Wednesday, June 26.
It was moved forward to as early as Monday, June 24 in response to planned protests against the Finance Bill 2024 set for Tuesday, June 25.
Schools have cited concerns about the safety and well-being of students amid the upcoming Tuesday demonstrations, which are expected to result in significant disruptions.
In a memo to school principals, the Ministry of Education explained that early departure is designed to give students and parents ample time to make travel plans ahead of the protests.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu during a past address. /NMG
Some of the principals have consequently sent messages to parents alerting them to pick the students from today, failure to which the next time they will be able to pick students will be Wednesday.
Students in day schools will be allowed to start their half-term break after the close of the academic day today.
According to a report by Citizen TV, the Ministry of Education acknowledged the adjustments made by schools.
Parents have expressed mixed reactions to the sudden change. While some appreciate the proactive measures taken by schools, others are concerned about the logistical challenges posed by the abrupt schedule adjustment.
Back in May, the Ministry had revised the half-term dates for Term Two to make up for the lost learning period caused by school closures due to flooding.
Education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang announced on Wednesday, May 29 that learners in pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools were to break for half-term from June 26 to June 28, 2024. The initial half-term date had been set to run from June 20-23 2024.
Since Tuesday last week, Kenyan citizens, mostly Gen Zs, have been taking to the streets in rejection of the Finance Bill 2024 proposals.
On Thursday, the protests spread across the country, covering towns such as Eldoret, Nanyuki, and Nyeri among others.
