The beginning of a new school term always comes with a flurry of activity, and this year is no exception as Kenyan schools are set to reopen this week. Across the country, parents, guardians, and students are scrambling to complete their last-minute preparations. Markets, bookstores, and uniform shops are bustling with customers as families purchase supplies needed for the academic term. From buying textbooks and school bags to ensuring uniforms are in pristine condition, the rush highlights the significance Kenyan families place on education, even amidst economic challenges.
With inflation driving up the cost of essential items, many parents are feeling the pinch. School fees, transport arrangements, and the cost of stationery have significantly increased compared to previous years, adding pressure to already stretched household budgets. Parents have voiced concerns about meeting these financial demands while ensuring their children are well-prepared for school. Nevertheless, there is a sense of determination as families prioritize education, seeing it as a critical investment in their children’s future.
The streets of major towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, have witnessed a surge in activity over the weekend, as traders and hawkers take advantage of the back-to-school rush. Some families are opting for creative ways to save money, including buying second-hand books and uniforms or forming carpool groups for transport. Additionally, parents and students are visiting cybercafés and online platforms to access e-books and other educational resources, reflecting the growing integration of technology in education.
As the school gates reopen, students are filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. For many, this term marks new beginnings, whether transitioning to a new grade, a new school, or even the start of their final year. Teachers and school administrators, too, are gearing up for the new term, ensuring classrooms are ready to welcome students. Despite the challenges, the back-to-school rush underscores a collective hope for progress and success in the coming academic year, demonstrating the resilience and commitment of Kenyan families toward education.
By Mbuvi Kelvin Rongo university
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER August 26, 2026
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER August 25, 2026
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER August 24, 2026
- Diaspora Times Global Aug 22 – Aug 28, 2026
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER August 21, 2026
About the Author
