In a groundbreaking moment for Kilifi County, Bahari Girls High School has made history by becoming the first school in the region to produce a female student with a mean grade of ‘A’ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.
Grace Sidi Karisa, a standout student at the national girls’ school located near Kilifi Town, achieved this milestone by scoring an impressive mean grade of ‘A’ (A plain) in the recently announced KCSE results.
Her accomplishment has placed both her and her school in the spotlight, inspiring young learners across the county.
A Community United in Celebration
Grace’s achievement has sparked widespread celebrations, particularly in her home village in the Matsangoni area of Kilifi North Sub-County.
On Friday, her parents, neighbors, fellow students, and local leaders gathered at her family home to honor her success.
In a jubilant display, they carried her shoulder-high, chanting her praises and expressing their pride in her hard work and determination.
Her parents, overwhelmed with joy, expressed their gratitude for the support their daughter had received throughout her educational journey.
Silvano Hamaro, the principal of Bahari Girls High School, lauded Grace’s exceptional performance, noting that it marks a significant milestone for the school and the county.
“Grace’s achievement is not just hers; it is a victory for all of us. She has set a new standard and opened doors for many others,” Hamaro said.
Grace’s Aspirations: A Future in Medicine
Speaking to journalists at her home, the soft-spoken but confident Grace revealed her dream of becoming a medical doctor.
“This is just the beginning of my journey. I want to pursue medicine and contribute to improving healthcare in our country,” she said.
Grace attributed her success to discipline, determination, and the unwavering support of her teachers, family, and friends.
Her journey to success, however, was not without challenges. Like many students in rural Kenya, Grace had to navigate hurdles such as limited resources and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these obstacles, she maintained her focus, a testament to her resilience and dedication.
A Beacon of Hope for Kilifi County
Grace’s achievement is a source of pride for Kilifi County, where education stakeholders have been working to improve performance in national examinations.
Historically, the region has faced challenges in achieving top grades, particularly for female students.
Grace’s success is, therefore, a beacon of hope, underscoring the potential of young girls when given the right opportunities and support.
Local leaders and education advocates have called for increased investment in education to nurture more talents like Grace’s.
“We need to ensure that more girls have access to quality education and the resources they need to excel,” said a community leader who attended the celebration.
Bahari Girls High School: A Rising Star
Bahari Girls High School has steadily risen in prominence as a center for academic excellence in Kilifi County.
The school’s administration has emphasized the importance of mentorship, a conducive learning environment, and robust support systems to enable students to excel.
Grace’s historic grade cements the school’s reputation as a trailblazer in the region.
National Recognition and Inspiration
Grace Sidi Karisa’s story has not only brought pride to her community but also serves as an inspiration to thousands of students across Kenya.
Her determination and success remind young learners, particularly girls, that they too can overcome barriers and achieve greatness.
As Kilifi celebrates this historic achievement, Grace stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and the boundless potential of Kenya’s youth.
