The mid-term break is firmly set for June 24th to 28th, 2026 despite
NAIROBI, 10th June 2026 -Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba has reiterated that the school calendar will remain unchanged, despite nationwide student unrest occasioned by the recent fire tragedy at Utumishi Girls Academy in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, the CS Ogamba confirmed that the mid-term break is firmly set for June 24th to 28th, 2026.
The decision follows a comprehensive nationwide analysis showing that less than 2% of the country’s senior schools are currently facing disruptions, meaning the vast majority remain stable and continue normal operations.
The ministry noted that most of the institutions affected by the unrest are boarding senior schools, while learners in Grades 1 to 9 continue with their studies with no significant interruptions reported.
Ogamba attributed the recent surge in tension to incidents affecting 204 senior schools across the country. However, he noted that learners in 59 of these schools have since returned and resumed their studies, with more expected to follow suit shortly.
“The unrest appears to be driven by a variety of factors including leadership challenges in institutions, learner anxiety and examination-related stress, poor school conditions, especially in boarding sectors, alcohol and drug abuse, strenuous school routines, peer influence, and copycat behaviour with learners demanding to be released from school.”
Heads of institutions have been urged to recognize their statutory duty to ensure that internal challenges are addressed in good time and that student safety and security are fully guaranteed.
Investigations into the individual school fires are currently ongoing, and the Cabinet Secretary warned the public against speculation before official findings are released. Each incident will be subjected to a thorough investigation to establish responsibility and prevent future occurrences, especially following the heartbreaking tragedy that led to the loss of 16 learners at Utumishi Girls Academy. Ogamba emphasized that the government is treating the unrest and general indiscipline with the utmost seriousness.
“There can never be justification for causing death and destroying property. Any grievances must be addressed through appropriate channels without resorting to unlawful actions or violence. All perpetrators will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.”
The government also announced that it will continue conducting nationwide audits and inspections of schools to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations. These inspections will focus heavily on dormitory safety standards, emergency preparedness, student welfare, and overall institutional management. Looking ahead, the ministry plans to restructure the academic timeline to prevent future stress on learners.
“Starting next academic year, the ministry shall rationalise the school calendar to ensure balanced terms across the year.”
