The Chief Principal of Kadika Girls National School, Ms Roseline Ochieng, has appealed to the government, development partners and other stakeholders to increase funding and support for co-curricular activities, saying they are critical in helping learners discover and nurture their talents.
Speaking during the school’s annual Cultural Fiesta, Ms Ochieng said that although parents and the school’s Board of Management have continued to support such programmes, there is a need for more partners to invest in initiatives that promote holistic learning.
The colourful event brought together students, teachers and guests as learners showcased their diverse cultural heritage through traditional dances, modelling, traditional attire, music, poems and other cultural performances.
Ms Ochieng noted that the annual festival provides an important platform for learners from different backgrounds to appreciate cultural diversity while promoting national cohesion, unity, tolerance and mutual respect within the school community.
She said the event has also become a talent development platform, with some students being identified by organisers during previous festivals and progressing to pursue their talents at higher levels beyond the school.
“The Competency-Based Education system places great emphasis on nurturing every learner’s unique abilities. Cultural festivals provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their creativity, leadership and talents beyond the classroom,” she said.
The principal added that investing in co-curricular activities complements academic excellence by equipping learners with practical life skills, confidence and teamwork.
English Literature teacher Ms Sharon Magawe said cultural activities also provide an opportunity to educate learners on harmful cultural practices while preserving positive traditions.
She noted that the school uses choral verses, poems and plays to sensitise students and the wider community against retrogressive practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), which is still reported in some communities, including parts of Kuria, Kisii and Turkana.
According to Ms Melda, the performances also advocate for girls’ education and encourage learners to reject early marriages and teenage pregnancies, which remain major contributors to school dropout among girls.
“This platform enables our students to become ambassadors for positive social change by using art to educate their peers and communities,” she said.
This year’s Cultural Fiesta was held on a larger scale following Kadika Girls’ elevation to national school status, with the institution organising an expanded celebration to reflect its new standing and provide learners with a bigger platform to showcase their talents and cultural diversity.
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