PS Omollo urges stronger community role in education, warns students against drugs

Interior PS Raymond Omollo at the 29th Patron’s Award Ceremony at Utumishi Boys Academy in Gilgil/MINA

The government has urged communities to play a stronger role in supporting education while warning young people about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.

Interior PS Raymond Omollo said education and youth development remain key pillars of national transformation. He spoke at the 29th Patron’s Award Ceremony at Utumishi Boys Academy on Tuesday.

He said nearly 30 per cent of the national budget is now allocated to the sector.

“By being part of this school, you are not just a parent to your child, but a parent to all these students,” Omollo said, urging parents to support learners facing financial hardship or difficult home environments.

The PS highlighted several achievements over the past three years, including the recruitment of more than 100,000 teachers and the construction of more than 23,000 classrooms nationwide.

He said the Competency-Based Curriculum has been streamlined, bringing greater clarity and stability for learners, teachers, and parents.

Omollo said the government is implementing programmes across education, healthcare, and social protection in collaboration with local administrations to ensure equal opportunity for all.

However, he expressed concern over rising drug and substance abuse among young people, describing it as one of the most serious threats to the nation’s future.

The PS urged students to make responsible choices and resist negative peer influence.

“One of the biggest issues that we are struggling with is the issue of drug and substance abuse. Because of the great potential that you carry, please do not fall prey to drugs,” he said.

He warned that involvement in drugs could close doors to future opportunities, including chances to contribute positively to national development.

“If you do not stay away from drugs, you may never have an opportunity for us to come and celebrate you,” he said.

Omollo also commended Utumishi Boys Academy for its remarkable growth from fewer than 100 students to nearly 1,000, attributing the achievement to a shared vision among school leadership, teachers, and parents.

He paid tribute to teachers, highlighting their mentorship and guidance, as well as their role in connecting students to scholarships and other opportunities.

“Teachers play a critical role in shaping the future of our young Kenyans. Your mentorship, patience and guidance have transformed countless lives,” he said.

Addressing the Class of 2025, Omollo congratulated the students on their hard work and urged them to remain disciplined as they prepare for national examinations.

He expressed confidence in their ability to set high standards for future students.

The ceremony was also attended by Gilgil MP Martha Wangari and Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat, who joined the PS in commending the academy for its contribution to nurturing responsible and disciplined youth.