Merishaw School Tops in 2024 KCSE: Two Years Meteoric Rise.
Located 64 kilometers from Nairobi in Isinya, Kajiado County, Merishaw School has emerged as Kenya’s top-performing institution in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.
The school, a relatively new entrant in the academic arena, attained an impressive A- mean grade of 10.5686 in its maiden KCSE attempt, solidifying its place as an academic powerhouse.
A Legacy Rooted in Excellence
Merishaw School’s rapid ascent to the top began in May 2022 with an initial enrolment of 96 students. By early 2023, the number had risen to 400, doubling to 800 by 2024.
The school’s name, derived from the Maa word “Or merisho” meaning “the conqueror,” is a reflection of its vision. Chief Principal David Kariuki explained that the name was Anglicized to “Merishaw” to appeal broadly while retaining its symbolic roots.
Principal Kariuki, a seasoned academic leader formerly at Alliance High School, attributed the school’s success to its unique culture and meticulous planning.
The dormitories are strategically surrounded by teachers’ houses, symbolizing a protective structure akin to the Maasai kraal where cows are safeguarded.
Kariuki emphasized the importance of this arrangement, likening students to the Maasai’s treasured livestock, which are guarded closely. He attributed the students’ achievements to a nurturing environment that prioritizes mentorship and consistent guidance.
Academic Achievements and Subject Performance
Merishaw School’s first KCSE cohort excelled across 14 registered subjects, scoring straight As in six:
| Subject | Mean Grade |
|---|---|
| History and Government | A |
| Agriculture | A |
| Computer Studies | A |
| Physics | A |
| Business Studies | A |
| Christian Religious Education | A |
Other notable performances included:
- A- Grades: Chemistry, Biology, Geography.
- B+ Grades: Kiswahili.
- B Grades: Mathematics, Art and Design.
- B- Grades: French.
- C+ Grades: English.
The school exceeded its target mean score of 8.5, achieving a remarkable 10.5686. This milestone, Kariuki said, was the result of intensive syllabus coverage completed by March 2023, followed by targeted topical revisions throughout the third term.
An Innovative Approach to Learning
Merishaw’s innovative strategies included asking students to write down their expected individual mean scores a month before exams. These projections were filed and used to address weak areas. The school had anticipated six students scoring plain As but surpassed this by achieving seven.
Principal Kariuki highlighted their structured revision process: “By third term, it was purely topical revisions, rapid results initiatives. Papers were designed to be completed in 20 minutes, immediately followed by revisions. This ensured students grasped key concepts efficiently.”
Merishaw’s excellence is not confined to academics. The school boasts an on-campus airplane for aviation practicals and has participated in international competitions. Over the past year, students represented Kenya in nine countries, including:
- Spain: Football competition.
- Thailand: World Scholars Competition.
- Turkey: Robo Fest for robotics.
- South Africa: STEM and rugby competitions.
- United States: Multiple academic contests.
Junior Secondary School Enrolment
As secondary enrolments conclude, Merishaw is preparing for its first cohort of Junior Secondary students, who will report next week. This expansion underscores the school’s commitment to shaping learners across all levels of education.
Reflecting on the stellar results, Principal Kariuki remained composed, expressing confidence in the school’s trajectory. Drawing on over three decades of experience, he stated, “I am not one bit surprised. Excellence is what I’ve always known, and it’s the only thing we will continue to do here.”
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Merishaw School’s extraordinary journey from inception to national prominence is a testament to visionary leadership, a dedicated faculty, and a culture of resilience. With its sights set on further milestones, the school promises to remain a beacon of excellence in Kenya’s educational landscape.
Merishaw School Tops in 2024 KCSE: Two Years Meteoric Rise.
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