Kisumu, Kenya – Jubilation filled the air at Rae Kanyaika Primary School in Kisumu East Sub-County as Felix Omondi Ochola scored an impressive 426 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), emerging as one of the top candidates nationally. The school celebrated this remarkable achievement with enthusiasm.

According to Kenya News Agency, Ochola attributed his success to hard work, dedication, and support from his parents, teachers, and classmates. “It has not been easy. We spent adequate time studying for this exam,” he said during an interview with KNA at the school. Ochola aspires to become an electrical engineer and is inspired by his uncle, who works in the field.

According to Paul Odhiambo, the headteacher of Rae Kanyaika Primary School, the school’s preparation strategy contributed to the students’ success. “Our morning lessons begin at 6.30 am, and students leave as late as 6.30 pm. Felix has always performed well, and we expected exemplary performance in the final exams,” Odhiambo explained.

The school had five students scoring above 400 marks out of a total candidature of 167. In 2021, the school’s mean score was 272, which increased to 295 in 2022. This year, they project a mean score of over 300 marks.

Stephen Ochieng, Ochola’s Science and Mathematics teacher, praised him as a hardworking and curious student. Collins Ouma Onyonge, the BOG Chairman, remarked that the school’s performance was not surprising given their consistent good results in the past. The school’s success, he noted, was a collective effort of teachers, parents, and the Board of Governors.

Lavine Atieno, Ochola’s sister, expressed pride in her brother’s achievement, noting the family’s financial struggles and encouraging him to maintain his dedication and focus.