Goibei Girls' Choir entertaining the quest with a Giriama folk song.
“An investment in education pays the best interest.”
This was the central message during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Goibei Girls High School, which was graced by the presence of Vihiga Senator, Hon. Godfrey Osotsi.
Speaking during the event, Chief Principal Dr Rose Koech expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, especially parents, for their unwavering support toward the school’s development.
“In a very special way, allow me to thank the parents of this great institution for the immense support they have continued to give. Through your commitment, we have managed to transform the school and firmly position it among the top academic performers in Vihiga County and beyond,” said Dr Koech.
A section of students following the proceedings.
She noted that the school continues to excel across disciplines, and in the previous year’s national examinations, over 502 students attained the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above. Expectations are even higher for this year’s results.
However, she highlighted key challenges the school is grappling with, including:
Delayed and poor fee payment by a large number of parents.
Understaffing, leading to a high reliance on Board of Management (BOM) teachers.
Water scarcity, a long-standing issue which is currently being addressed through a new borehole project, soon to be commissioned.
Lack of a pedestrian flyover on the busy Serem–Gambogi road, posing a safety risk to students and causing time wastage.
Students entertaining the guests.
Dr Koech thanked the BOM for their proactive support and called for continued collaboration among all stakeholders.
Senator Osotsi Commends School’s Performance, Pledges Support
The Chief Guest, Hon. Godfrey Osotsi, thanked the school for inviting him and commended both the administration and students for their outstanding academic and co-curricular achievements, describing the school as the “Alliance of Vihiga County.”
“I’m impressed by the system and flow of operations in this school. I promise to support Goibei Girls moving forward,” he affirmed.
Senator Godfrey Osotsi making his remarks.
Senator Osotsi raised concerns about delayed and insufficient capitation from the government, which he said is affecting the effective running of public schools. He called on the Ministry of Education to urgently address this issue, stressing that school principals face enormous challenges under the current conditions.
He further pledged to champion the policy of free education from primary to university in the Senate, citing successful models in countries such as Singapore.
In recognition of the school’s academic excellence, he promised to sponsor selected students for a leadership and governance exposure tour at the Senate. He also donated a bull for the students’ celebration and offered a token of appreciation to the teachers.
Senator Osotsi joins students in song and dance.
Regarding the Flyover project, Hon. Osotsi committed to engaging the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, and other leaders in organizing a fundraiser this August to fast-track the construction of the flyover.
Board, Officials, and Education Stakeholders Echo Commitment
Prof. Solomon Shibairo, BOM Chair, thanked the Senator for honoring the invitation and urged parents to be more involved in their children’s lives, emphasizing that returns on educational investments are only possible with parental presence and support.
“As the Board, we are committed to improving the school’s mean score and academic performance. We also challenge teachers and students to go above and beyond expectations,” Prof. Shibairo said.
Prof Solomon Shibairo, BOM Chair making his address.
He cautioned parents against using social media to spread negative narratives about the school and encouraged them to instead use it constructively. He acknowledged the challenges raised, including the flyover, and assured that the board is working on a clear roadmap to address them.
Mr Edward Otieno, representing the Sub-County Director of Education (SCDE), applauded the school’s strong Board and management structure. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the school and ensuring quality education in a conducive learning environment.
Dr Wilson Otieno, TSC Sub-County Director, commended the staff and acknowledged the issue of understaffing. He promised to follow up on the matter and called on parents to play their role through timely fee payments and active involvement in their daughters’ education.
Speakers throughout the event hailed Dr Rose Koech for her visionary leadership and the positive transformation she has brought to the school. Under her stewardship, the school has witnessed major infrastructural developments, including a modern gate, administration block, cabro paving, and an overall rise in academic standards and student confidence.
Goibei Girls High School continues to stand as an epitome of excellent leadership, community collaboration, and academic excellence in Vihiga County.
A section of the teachers being introduced by the Principal Dr Rose Koech.
