Alumni, Community Join Forces to Revitalize Kipkombot Primary School
“We are incredibly grateful to the alumni, especially Dr. Rotich, for fencing the school, ensuring we have water, and introducing the feeding program,” Sitienei stated
Once on the brink of collapse, Kipkombot Primary School is now undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the unwavering efforts of its alumni and the local community.
Leading the charge is Dr. Henry Rotich, a distinguished alumnus and patron of the school, who spearheaded the second phase of a revitalization initiative aimed at improving the institution’s infrastructure and learning conditions.
Speaking during a community event at the school, Dr. Rotich underscored the urgent need to restore Kipkombot Primary, citing its critical role in shaping the future of local children.
“This school was in a deplorable state—dilapidated classrooms, leaking roofs, and an open compound where livestock roamed freely,” Dr. Rotich remarked. “We couldn’t sit back and watch it collapse. Education has the power to transform lives, and we must safeguard it for these children.”
A Community-Driven Turnaround
Determined to save the school, Kipkombot’s alumni joined forces with the local church, well-wishers, and parents to launch a series of interventions. The first milestone was fencing the school compound, which previously lacked security, forcing many parents to withdraw their children.
“Fencing the school and installing a gate has restored security. Now, we can control access and create a safe learning environment,” Dr. Rotich noted.
Another key initiative is the introduction of a school feeding program, addressing a major challenge faced by students who often traveled long distances to school and struggled to concentrate due to hunger.
“Many of these children could not return home for lunch, especially during the rainy season,” Dr. Rotich explained. “We started the feeding program to ensure they can stay in school and learn effectively. However, we need more support to sustain it.”
Appeal for More Support
While progress has been made, Dr. Rotich urged the national and county governments to step in and support the school’s infrastructure needs.
“The County Government has been instrumental in constructing an ECDE classroom, and we appreciate that support,” he said. “However, we still need assistance in renovating the old classrooms, replacing iron sheets, and leveling the playing field to facilitate extracurricular activities.”
Headteacher: ‘We Are No Longer in Danger of Closure’
Kipkombot Primary School Headteacher Anne Sitienei credited the alumni’s involvement with the school’s revival. From a dwindling enrollment of just 24 students, the school now boasts over 150 learners, with numbers steadily rising.
“We are incredibly grateful to the alumni, especially Dr. Rotich, for fencing the school, ensuring we have water, and introducing the feeding program,” Sitienei stated. “These initiatives have completely turned things around. We are no longer at risk of closure, and we expect our enrollment to exceed 200 soon.”
Community members echoed similar sentiments, appreciating the efforts made to restore the school’s status. Pauline Ngelechei, a parent, lauded the introduction of the feeding program, which has had a direct impact on the students’ well-being.
“Our children now have food in school, which is a big relief. I encourage more well-wishers to come forward and support us with additional food supplies,” she said.
Alumnus and parent Anthony Arap Mindio urged parents who had transferred their children due to the school’s past struggles to reconsider.
“We are happy with the progress, and I encourage parents to bring their children back. Thanks to Dr. Rotich and the alumni, Kipkombot Primary is no longer in a bad state.”
Governor Sang Commits to Further Support
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, commended the alumni-led efforts and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education.
“The construction of ECDE centers across the county remains a priority in my development agenda,” Governor Sang said while officially opening the AIC Kipkombot ECDE Center in Kabiyet Ward, Mosop Constituency. “We are determined to provide young learners with the resources they need to thrive in their educational journey.”
A Brighter Future for Kipkombot Primary
The transformation of Kipkombot Primary School stands as a testament to the power of collective action. Through the dedication of alumni, community members, and local leaders, the school is steadily regaining its place as a pillar of education in Nandi County.
With sustained support, Kipkombot is poised to offer an even better learning environment—one where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
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