Dr. Vincent Munyoki, founder of the Dr. Vincent Munyoki Foundation and a 2027 parliamentary aspirant for Kitui West Constituency, has called on parents across Kitui County to ensure all learners report back to school, emphasizing the need for a 100% transition of Grade 10 students to senior secondary schools.

Speaking during the official opening of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish in Iiani, the 37th parish of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui, Dr. Munyoki urged parents to prioritize education despite the economic hardships facing many families. “I want to urge all parents to ensure that all Grade 9 learners who sat their examinations last year have transitioned to senior secondary schools. Despite the challenges parents are facing, we must strive to achieve 100% transition because every child deserves access to education,” he said.

Dr. Munyoki noted that inadequate rainfall and crop failure during the November–December rainy season have worsened the situation for many households in Kitui County, leading to food shortages and increased financial strain. Nevertheless, he encouraged parents to make every effort to ensure their children remain in school.

READ ALSO: Nicholas Mulila Leads Handover of Ksh. 14.4 Million Medical Equipment at Kauwi Sub-County Hospital Through M-PESA Foundation

He further called upon school principals and all heads of institutions to be understanding and supportive of parents facing economic difficulties. Dr. Munyoki appealed to school administrators not to send learners home over school fees, urging them instead to accommodate parents and allow students to continue learning. “I humbly request all heads of institutions to be accommodative with parents, even with the little they are able to provide. Let us ensure learners stay in school. The rains failed us, and parents are struggling, but our children must continue with their education,” he added.

In addressing the potential hunger crisis in parts of Kitui County, Dr. Munyoki appealed to the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and well-wishers to support schools with food supplies. He reiterated that the Dr. Vincent Munyoki Foundation will continue its tradition of supporting learning institutions through the distribution of relief food. “When children are hungry, they cannot concentrate in class. I call upon all stakeholders to join hands in ensuring schools have adequate food for learners,” he said.

Beyond education matters, Dr. Munyoki also urged motorists across the country to strictly adhere to traffic rules to curb the rising number of road accidents. He cautioned drivers, especially during the busy back-to-school period, to avoid over-speeding and driving while fatigued.

YOU MISSED: Dr. Vincent Munyoki Calls on Youths to Come Out in Large Numbers and Register as Voters

The official opening of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish, Iiani, was presided over by His Lordship Rt. Rev. Joseph Mwongela, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui. The new parish will be led by Fr. Charles Joseph Kitheka as the Father in Charge, assisted by Fr. Cyprian Kaleve.

The parish was carved out of Muthale, Nguutani, and Katutu Parishes and comprises several stations, including St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Iiani, St. Peter Kakeani, St. Luke Matinga, St. Lydia Kasue, St. Mary Ivulya Muu, St. John Kivani, St. Patrick Nzawa, St. Peter Emivia, St. Paul Ngomola, St. Paul Thimu, St. Charles Lwanga Muthioni, St. Patrick Nzalae, and St. Peter Katoteni.

The ceremony attracted thousands of Catholic faithful from across the Diocese of Kitui and was attended by several leaders, among them Hon. Nicholas Mulila, Chief Corporate Security Officer at Safaricom PLC, among other dignitaries.

Ends///