Parents call for review as Marakwet Boys High sees drop in academic results

Parents of students at Marakwet Boys High School in Elgeyo Marakwet County have requested a government review of the school’s management, citing concerns over academic performance, rising financial contributions, and the overall learning environment.

The parents, who asked to remain anonymous, said the school has recorded a decline in academic results in recent years, prompting questions about its current trajectory.

“How can a school like Marakwet Boys get a mean grade of 4.9, down from 7.2 and above in recent years? There is something that needs attention,” said one parent.

They urged the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive review of the school’s administration and academic systems to identify factors affecting performance and recommend improvements.

The concerns come after a recent incident of student unrest earlier this month.

Parents claim they have been asked to contribute Sh6,000 per student to support repairs.

“In a school with about 800 students, this will raise close to Sh5 million. We are asking for clarity and accountability on how these funds are assessed and utilised,” another parent said.

Some parents questioned the uniform nature of the levy, alleging that newly admitted Form Four students were asked to contribute an additional Sh1,000, adding financial pressure on families.

Beyond the levies, parents called for a review of the school’s financial management, alleging that several co-curricular activities, including sports and other programmes that previously supported student development, have been reduced.

They also expressed concern about the general morale within the institution, suggesting that working relations and motivation levels could affect teaching and learning outcomes.

“We are concerned that the environment may not fully support both teachers and students to perform at their best,” said another parent.

Parents highlighted the alleged discontinuation of a sports mentorship programme initiated by a former student and elite athlete, which they said had aimed to train learners and help them secure scholarship opportunities abroad.

They said the programme was paused despite initial preparations and provision of sports gear to participating students.

“What we want is for the relevant authorities to review what is happening in the school so that academic performance can improve. We want the school to regain its previous standing,” a parent said.

The parents appealed for urgent attention from education authorities to enhance oversight, strengthen accountability, and support both academic and co-curricular development.

The school’s Board of Management (BOM) chairperson, John Chelimo, confirmed that the board had received complaints from some parents. He declined to comment in detail, noting that the issues raised are under review.

“They have expressed their concerns, and that is their right,” Chelimo told the Star. He said the board will meet within the next two weeks to consider the matters.

“Let us not pre-empt the outcome because the investigations are ongoing. We will hear from all parties—parents, students, and teachers—before making recommendations. Any necessary decisions will be made by the board. For now, we ask for patience,” he added.