By Dennis Weche 
The Ministry of Education has officially elevated nine secondary schools in Western Kenya to National School (C1) status, marking a major step toward promoting equitable access to quality education across the country. This strategic move is part of the government’s broader plan to decentralize elite education and enhance regional representation in top-performing institutions.
Among the schools elevated are Musingu School, St. Peter’s Mumias Boys, and The Sacred Heart Mukumu Girls. These institutions have long-standing reputations for academic excellence, leadership development, and strong performance in co-curricular activities.
The complete list of schools elevated to national status includes St. Mary’s Kibabii in Bungoma County, Moi Girls Kamusinga also in Bungoma, The Sacred Heart Mukumu Girls in Kakamega, Musingu School in Kakamega, St. Peter’s Mumias Boys in Kakamega, Keveye Girls in Vihiga, Nyangori Boys in Vihiga, St. Stephen Lwanya Girls in Busia, and Nambale Boys in Busia.
With their new national status, these schools will now receive increased government funding, improved infrastructure, access to highly qualified teaching staff, and the ability to admit students from all 47 counties. They will also serve as centers of excellence for the Competency Based Education (CBE), especially as Kenya transitions to the senior school phase by 2026.
According to senior officials at the Ministry of Education, the schools were selected based on consistent performance in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), capacity for growth, quality of school leadership, and their record in co-curricular and community-based initiatives.
A senior official from the ministry stated, “This is a deliberate investment in regional talent. We are committed to ensuring that high-potential schools across all counties are given the opportunity to shine on the national stage.”
Musingu School continues to distinguish itself as one of the top boys’ schools in the region, with strong results in both the sciences and the humanities. The school also has a strong reputation in football, having produced players who have represented Kenya at national levels.
St. Peter’s Mumias Boys has remained consistent in both academic performance and discipline. Sponsored by the Catholic Church, the school has produced many alumni who now serve in various professional sectors including medicine, law, and education.
Mukumu Girls has made significant progress in infrastructure development, academic performance, and student welfare. Despite facing challenges in previous years, the school has demonstrated resilience and growth, making it one of the top girls’ schools in Kakamega County.
The elevation of these schools has been welcomed by local leaders, education stakeholders, and alumni associations. Several county governors and Members of Parliament have pledged to work closely with the newly designated national schools to help them meet the expectations that come with their new status.
Alumni associations of schools like Musingu, Mukumu, and St. Peter’s Mumias have already begun planning mentorship programs, fundraising drives, and resource mobilization initiatives to complement government support.
This development marks a turning point for education in the Western region. It brings top-tier opportunities closer to communities that have historically had limited access to national-level education facilities. It is also expected to raise the academic profile of the region and contribute to the national goal of inclusive excellence.
Angatia Leonard
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