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By Wasike Elvis
Kipkombot Primary School, located in Nandi County, has experienced a remarkable transformation over the past year, thanks to the introduction of a school feeding program. Once struggling with low enrollment and inadequate resources, the school has seen a significant increase in student numbers and overall improvement in infrastructure. The school’s journey from a humble beginning in 1973, when students learned under a tree, to its current success story is a testament to the power of community support and dedicated leadership.
According to Anne Sitienei, the headteacher, Kipkombot Primary faced significant challenges, including a lack of a fence, limited teaching staff, and low student enrollment. At one point, the school was on the verge of closure due to these difficulties. However, a series of interventions have helped turn the school around. After discussions with the Ministry of Education, the school received a Junior Secondary class, and the Teachers Service Commission, through the Kabiyet Sub-County office, provided one additional teacher with a promise for more.
The most transformative development came when the school was highlighted in the media. This brought in support from generous sponsors, including Bishop David Serem of AIC Nandi County, who brought food supplies to the school. The introduction of a school feeding program, which provides students with porridge in the morning and lunch, has been pivotal in increasing the enrollment numbers. "Before the feeding program, we had only about 60 students. But now, we have more than 130 students enrolled, and the number continues to grow," said Sitienei.
Bishop Serem shared his emotional connection to the school, recalling his visit last year when he saw students who had no food. Moved by their plight, he pledged to sponsor their porridge for two weeks. "I saw the children with their hands down when I asked who had eaten, and it broke my heart," Bishop Serem recalled. "Since then, I’ve been committed to supporting this school, and I’m happy to see the improvement." This year, he donated over 20 bags of maize to the school, further contributing to the success of the feeding program.
The impact of the feeding program has been profound. Teachers, who once had to rest under trees during lunchtime due to the lack of proper facilities, now have food to eat, and the students are more focused and healthier. Senior teacher Julius Keter recalled the difficulties the school faced in the past, saying, “There were times we didn’t have enough resources to provide even a basic lunch, and our students were hungry and disengaged. Now, with food and support, enrollment has surged, and morale is higher than ever.”
Parent Chairperson Leonida Sosten expressed her gratitude for the positive changes at the school. "This is not the Kipkombot Primary School we once knew," she said. "We used to struggle with low enrollment, and our teachers were demoralized. But now, thanks to the feeding program and support from people like Dr. Rotich, who helped fence the school and brought us a cow, we are seeing a major turnaround. The students are more motivated, and the teachers are working harder." The cow has also become a vital part of the school’s resources, providing milk that supplements the feeding program.
The increase in enrollment has not only boosted the school’s academic performance but has also motivated the local community to get more involved. Parents have been encouraged to send their children to Kipkombot, and many have expressed their satisfaction with the improvements. Anthony Samoei, a parent, shared how the feeding program has positively impacted his own child. “My child is now healthier and performing better in school. I never thought I would see such a change,” he said. "We urge the Chief and local leaders to continue encouraging parents to enroll their children here, as the school is now thriving."
Despite the positive changes, challenges remain. Sosten called on the government to assist with further renovations, including providing additional desks, as currently, six students share one desk. "We need more desks and proper infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of students," she said. Additionally, she urged for the replacement of a damaged transformer that affects the school’s electricity supply.
The school’s transformation has been made possible by the collective effort of local leaders, the community, and generous sponsors. Dr. Rotich, a notable alumnus of the school, has played a significant role in securing resources for the school, including the fencing of the premises. He has also ensured that the school’s facilities are improved, enabling a more conducive learning environment. "I’m committed to seeing Kipkombot Primary succeed, and I believe the school will continue to grow and perform well," Dr. Rotich said.
The future of Kipkombot Primary School looks bright, and the introduction of the feeding program has undoubtedly been a catalyst for the school’s resurgence. With increased enrollment, a more motivated staff, and an engaged community, the school is poised for continued success. As the feeding program continues to thrive, the students of Kipkombot Primary School can look forward to better academic results and a brighter future.