KISUMU, 22 Oct 2026 -A total of 689 learners at Xaverian Comprehensive School are preparing to sit national examinations after the institution closed for a nine-week holiday, with the head urging parents to protect children from abuse, drugs and other dangers during the break.
Head of Institution Barnabas Odeny said 388 Grade 6 learners would sit the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA), while 301 learners would take the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA).
Odeny expressed confidence in the candidates’ readiness, saying the school had completed the term successfully and was expecting good results.
“We completed the term very well. Our children are prepared to sit for the national exams and I am optimistic good results await us,” he said.
The school has issued holiday assignments, known as home fun books, to keep learners engaged academically.
Odeny urged parents to ensure the assignments are completed and that children revise their notes throughout the holiday. The school is expected to reopen on January 4, 2027.
During the closing ceremony on Thursday, Odeny revealed that two learners had recently been defiled by people known to them and were receiving medical care.
He urged parents to remain vigilant about the people who interact with their children, warning that abuse could occur within familiar social circles.
The society has become rotten. We are living in a bad environment. If you have somebody whom you call your friend, please let that person not come close to your girl,” he said.
Odeny also advised learners against accepting gifts, lifts or treats from strangers. He urged them to shout for help if they felt threatened or found themselves in danger.
With the 2027 general election approaching, Odeny cautioned parents against allowing children to attend political rallies, citing the risk of violence and injury.
“We have seen cases of chaos erupting in rallies, school-going children being shot by stray bullets. Let’s stay in the house under the guidance of parents and read books,” Odeny said.
He also warned parents about unrestricted television viewing and mobile phone use, saying children could be exposed to content unsuitable for their age.
Odeny urged parents to monitor the use of mobile phones and tablets and to ensure children spent their time on educational and age-appropriate activities.
The head of institution raised concerns about tobacco products disguised as electronic devices, urging parents to watch for signs of smoking and discourage children from experimenting with such products.
He also warned learners against stealing or handling stolen property, saying such behaviour could bring them into conflict with the law.
Odeny reminded children to help with household chores and respect their parents’ authority, including decisions about television use.
“Learners’ remote belongs to the parents,” he said, warning children against throwing tantrums when television access was restricted.
He called on parents and teachers to work together to protect children and promote responsible behaviour during the holiday.
“It is our responsibility, teachers and parents, to ensure we raise responsible children. We will not allow our children to be destroyed,” he said.
