Schools across the country have begun canceling long-planned events such as Sports Days and PP2 Graduation Ceremonies following a directive from the Ministry of Education that prohibits all social activities during the third term.
The Ministry issued the directive to ensure that schools remain focused on academic work during this crucial period, as the third term often coincides with national examinations and end-of-year assessments.
The move has prompted many institutions to adjust their schedules and look for modest ways to celebrate their learners’ milestones without violating the Ministry’s instructions.
In one of the circulars seen by parents, a school explained that while their annual Sports Day and formal PP2 Graduation Ceremony would not take place this year, they would still recognize the achievements of their young learners in a smaller, private way.
“Due to a strict directive from the Ministry of Education prohibiting schools from holding social events during the third term, we regret to inform you that we will not be able to hold our planned Sports Day and PP2 Graduation Ceremony,” read the statement from the school’s administration.
“However, we will celebrate the PP2 Graduation with a simple in-house ceremony for the children, together with their classmates.”
This sentiment is being echoed across many institutions, particularly private and public primary schools, where the PP2 graduation has traditionally been a colorful and highly anticipated event.
The celebrations often include songs, poems, dances, and short plays performed by the learners, with parents and teachers gathering to mark the transition of pupils from the Early Years Education (EYE) level to Grade One under Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
The PP2 graduation ceremony has long been viewed as a rite of passage, a proud moment for families and schools alike, symbolizing the growth, confidence, and readiness of the learners as they move to formal primary education. Many schools go all out to make the day memorable, with learners donning miniature graduation gowns and caps, parents capturing the moments in photos and videos, and teachers celebrating the progress of their young pupils.
However, this year’s directive means that such celebrations will be toned down or entirely scrapped in most schools. Instead, teachers are opting for simple classroom-based recognitions where pupils may receive certificates, sing songs, or enjoy treats within their learning spaces, without external guests or elaborate events.
Education officials have defended the directive, noting that it is intended to maintain an environment conducive to learning during a term that determines students’ progression to the next grade.
“The third term is a critical time for learners. We want schools to focus on academics and avoid distractions that come with organizing and hosting large events,” a Ministry official said.
Despite the disappointment among parents and learners, many school heads have expressed understanding, emphasizing the importance of adhering to government policy while still finding ways to make learners feel appreciated. Some institutions have assured parents that photos and short videos of the in-class celebrations will be shared privately as a way of preserving memories for the young graduates.
As the academic year draws to a close, the new approach serves as a reminder of the delicate balance schools must maintain between celebrating milestones and ensuring educational focus. While the absence of colorful ceremonies may be felt this year, teachers and parents alike hope that learners will still carry forward the joy and pride of their accomplishments as they prepare to step into Grade One.
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