On August 10, 2024, the Mwilu Family organized a successful charity football tournament to support needy students at our school. With strong backing from parents, who not only contributed financially but also attended in large numbers, the event was a fantastic effort.

17 teams, mostly comprised of students, participated in the 7-a-side tournament, with each player contributing Ksh. 1,000. Tournament T-shirts were also sold to raise additional funds. Thanks to the excellent organization and the dedication of parents, an impressive Ksh. 334,000 was raised to help students in need. Thank you to everyone who made this initiative a great success!

On the 1st week of August 2024 in Eldoret town, the National Music Festival was held, showcasing the talents of musicians and performers from different schools around the country. Strathmore School had 13 entries for the National Music festivals.

The following were our performances:

In the piano category, the duet from Class 1107H dazzled the audience, securing an impressive 2nd position in the advanced category. Nearby, the eloquent French public speaker, Dante Mbugua, from Class 2318JA also captured hearts, earning their own 2nd position.

The highlight of the festival came from Class 323A, our Junior Secondary full choir which performed an original composition, winning 1st place. Their harmonies resonated through the hall, enchanting all who listened. In contrast, Class 322’s choir performed an African American Spiritual, earning 6th place, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.

Classes continued to impress: Class 257 presented an engaging own composition focused on the KICD curriculum, achieving 4th place; while Class 366JA’s choir sang about “Planting Trees,” also placing 4th, spreading an important environmental message. Class 268 raised awareness about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, landing in 5th place.

Meanwhile, Class 324JA explored popular African tunes with a lively arrangement of “Ngulo,” finishing 8th, and Class 264 tackled the theme of anti-counterfeit goods, also coming in at 8th.

Other entries included Class 261’s thoughtful composition on “Citizenship,” which finished 7th, and Class 266, which the primary school choir sang passionately about planting trees, placing it 6th.

This year’s festival is the 96th Music Festival and it was themed “Talent Development for Growth of the Creative Economy”. It celebrated the talents and hard work of all the young performers, making it memorable for everyone involved.

Towards the end of Term 2 2024 the bustling basketball courts of Strathmore School, bubbled with excitement and enthusiasm as we hosted the Junior Secondary Schools Basketball 3 on 3 tournament. The tournament saw Strathmore’s young athletes journey through challenges that would forge unforgettable memories and deep camaraderie—not just on the court, but off of it as well.

Zonal Stage: A Display of Dominance

The tournament kicked off with the zonal games, where Strathmore School showcased a remarkable run. Their first match against Lavington was nothing short of spectacular. Strathmore, with their strategic play and teamwork, triumphed with a score of 22-2. It set a powerful tone for the tournament. The team continued their winning streak with a commanding 22-0 victory over Saint Mary’s School, followed by another overwhelming performance against Muthangari, ending that game 22-0.

As they advanced to the zonal finals, the intensity rose. The match against Makini School was thrilling, with Strathmore narrowly winning 18-16. It was a testament to their grit and determination, showcasing not just their skill but their ability to work as a cohesive unit. With the zonal title secured, smiles were wide and spirits ran high as the team celebrated their achievements together.

Sub-County Stage: A Test of Tenacity

Next came the sub-county games, where Strathmore aimed to maintain their momentum. In their first match against Westlands Primary, they managed a hard-fought victory with a score of 15-11. The competition continued against Tumshangilie Primary, which saw Strathmore clinching a straightforward win, finishing at 6-2.

The sub-county finals brought yet another challenge, but Strathmore, undeterred, faced Makini School once more. With a relentless defense and an air-tight strategy, they secured the win with a score of 10-4, further solidifying their reputation within the league.

County Stage: The Climb Gets Steeper

Having conquered the sub-county, the young athletes pressed on to compete at the county level where they represented Westlands and fought against other sub-counties. Their first match against Embakasi was a nail-biter, ending in a narrow defeat of 7-10. However, that setback didn’t deter the team. Showcasing resilience, they bounced back in their next match against Kibra, winning 9-8—this game showcased the unwavering teamwork and tenacity that Strathmore athletes are known for.

The next match against Starehe was another showcase of strategic play, concluding in a tightly contested 5-4 victory. Yet, the strain of the previous match-ups weighed on them as they faced Makadara in the quarter-finals. In a fierce battle, Strathmore fought valiantly but lost narrowly 4-6.

A Journey of Growth and Sportsmanship

While the tournament concluded with mixed outcomes, what remained was an undeniable sense of achievement and bond among the players. Coaches and teammates celebrated not just the points scored and matches won, but the journey they undertook together. Every dribble and pass had been infused with lessons in teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship.

The players left the tournament having learnt that even in defeat, there is victory in the growth, laughter and shared experiences that come with being part of a team.

Strathmore School’s basketball journey is a testament to the spirit of youth sports—a joyous celebration of hard work and the indomitable spirit of players.

Born in Galway, Ireland, in 1934 and educated at the Patrician Brothers’ School and St Joseph’s College, Kevin O’Byrne graduated from University College Galway with a First Class Honours Degree in Civil Engineering, he worked with the ESB and with British Reinforced Concrete, before leaving for Nairobi in 1958 where he would spend the rest of his life until his passing in 2008.

In 1958 racial tensions were running high in Kenya, but Kevin arrived in Kenya with a mission to help establish what was to become Strathmore College, the first multi-racial college in East Africa. The buildings of the college are still the same ones where we are today at Strathmore School.

Kevin O’Byrne was an outstanding all-around sportsman who excelled in rugby, football, golf and tennis. He represented Kenya and East Africa as scrum-half from 1960-65.

As a multifaceted individual, Kevin contributed to the engineering aspects of the school buildings, taught mathematics when the school started in 1961, served as the first Deputy Principal of the school, helped find teachers for the school from his rugby circles and coached the first multiracial rugby team in Kenya, the Strathmore College Team, which was a formidable force in rugby. Kevin’s ability in bring people together to create a winning synergy was evident in the people he would select to setup formidable teams in: the teaching staff of the school, the school rugby teams he formed and the players from the school team who he conivnced to join the club teams he was playing for. Kevin played Scrum Half for Kenya Harlequins, Kenyan National Team and East Africa. After his playing days he transitioned to refereeing and became the Chairman of the Kenya Rugby Referees Society; a top-notch rugby referee; known for his excellent game management skills on the field.

The layout of our sports fields are thanks to his efforts and they they remain unchanged since he laid them out. Kevin introduced rugby to our school and became our first coach and has been an inspiration to many generations of teachers, students and sportsmen in our school. As a coach Kevin was a no-nonsense leader who demanded the best from his players.

To celebrate Kevin’s remarkable life and achievements, on 20th July 2024, we hosted The 2024 O’Byrne Under 16 memorial 10-a-side boys Rugby tournament which had 5 teams: Sunshine Secondary School, Lenana School A, Lenana School B, Strathmore School A and Strathmore School B. All the teams were able to test each other’s strengths in a round-robin set of matches. After all the points and scores were collated at the end of the tournament, Strathmore School A were winners and Lenana School A took 2nd place. What an electrifying Saturday! We look forward to making this tournament an annual event in our school’s sporting calendar.

We also continue to pray for the eternal repose of Kevin’s soul and celebrate the lasting impact he had on our school and community.

This year’s Athletics Day was held on 12th July 2024 in 2 halves of the day. The first half was for the primary’s section track and field events and the secondary’s section was in the afternoon.

Among the notable performances this year were as follows:

Grade 1: Dennis Mwangeka who won both 100M and 200M. He was also part of the 4 by 100M, Team Nyati, that won the race. Dennis was crowned athletics champ for Grade 1s.

Grade 2: Asher Macharia who won both 100M and 200M. He was also part of the 4 by 100M, Team Ndovu, that won the race. Asher was crowned athletics champ for Grade 2s.

Grade 3: Tristan Sibuti who won both 100M and 200M. In the 100M race he was followed closely by Keith Migiro who came in second. Both Tristan and Keith formed part of the 4 by 100M, Team Simba, that won the race. Tristan was crowned athletics champ for Grade 3s.

Grade 4: Gabriel Mutwiwa won the 100M race and Feivel won the 200M race. Both were members of the Nyati team which was second in the 4 by 100M race.

Grade 5: Jaden Kinungei won 100M and 400M races. He was also 3rd in 1500M. He formed part of Team Chui which was 2nd in the 4 by 100M.

Grade 6: Lance Marrosi and Andrew Mathenge were the notable athletes. Lance won 100M, 200M and 400M. Andrew won High Jump, Long Jump and Shot Putt. Both lance and Andrew were part of the Ndovu team that came second in the 4 by 100M

Grade 7: Elrad Ombonyo won 100M and 800M.

Grade 8: Trevor Karanja won 100M and 200M. Nelson Onyango won 400M, Discuss and Shot Putt. Nelson was second in Long Jump.

Form 1: Andrew Muchigi and Leon Marrosi were notable. Andrew won 100M and 200M. Leon won 400M and 800M. Leon also came second in 100M.

Form 3: Alex Kariuki won both 100M and 200M.

Form 4: Owen Dima and Daniel Njai were notable. Owen won both 100M and 200M. Daniel won both 400M and 800M

Launched on 8th June 2024; Mawio is dedicated to empowering students from greatly challenging backgrounds from our sub-county, Westlands by providing them with the necessary tools and guidance to enhance their educational journey. This incredible weekend program is designed specifically to improve the academic performance of junior school students and create a supportive community for their families.

Every Saturday, we welcome the boys to Strathmore School, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. During their time with us, we focus on teaching them vital subjects such as Mathematics, Science, English, Kiswahili and Social Studies, equipping them with comprehensive foundations.

In collaboration with five public junior schools in Kibera, Kawangware, and Kangemi, Mawio actively supports 40 grade 6 students. These schools face resource constraints, making our partnership crucial in ensuring these students have the resources they need to thrive. Additionally, our program goes beyond academics, nurturing character development and life skills through engaging activities, sports and enriching excursions.

Our commitment to these boys extends beyond their current academic year. Mawio is dedicated to supporting them until they transition to grade 10, nurturing them throughout their crucial years of education.

We are hopeful that this impactful journey will empower these young boys!

The grandeur of intellectual sparring and eloquent rhetoric took center stage at Strathmore University’s Scholars Debate Festival on June 29th and 30th. Amidst the hallowed halls of academia, the British Parliamentary Debate System brought together formidable minds, showcasing brilliance and debate prowess.

In the senior semifinals, the teams of Peter John Mutura and David Kariuki, as well as Curtis Kamotho and Murakaru Njuki, battled fiercely demonstrating strategic acumen and eloquence in every argument presented.

Advancing to the Senior Finals were the teams of Fidel Muthemba and Emmanuel Mumo alongside Enock Maina and Sean Shundi, each vying for the coveted championship title.

Ultimately, it was Ian Irungu and Aaron Njugi who clinched the prestigious Senior Champions title. Their triumph not only affirmed their intellectual mettle but also earned them scholarships covering 50% of the course fees for a course of their choice; a testament to their dedication and brilliance.

In the junior category, the finals showcased the talents of Jaden Kiragu and Jabari Areri with Ayden Kinyanjui and Nathan Njenga emerging triumphant as the Junior Champions. Their eloquence and quick wit captivated the audience, setting a high standard for future debaters.

Recognizing individual brilliance, Ayden Kinyanjui secured the 5th place Best Speaker award in the junior category with Nathan Njenga following closely in 4th place.

In the senior category, David Kariuki’s rhetorical finesse earned him the 10th place in the Best Speaker rankings. Notably, the senior speakers rankings were led by Aaron Ngugi in 2nd place, followed by Kwame Kimani in 3rd, Ian Irungu in 5th, Fidel Muthemba in 7th, and Emmanuel Mumo in 9th.

The Scholars Debate Festival at Strathmore University not only celebrated the art of debate but also underscored the institution’s commitment to nurturing critical thinking and leadership skills among its students. As debates continue to shape perspectives and inspire change, events like these remind us of the power of discourse in shaping future leaders.

With each argument articulated and rebutted, the Strathmore Scholars Debate Festival reaffirmed its position as a beacon of intellectual excellence and camaraderie, where minds meet, ideas clash and brilliance shines through.

The music regional festivals ended on the first week of July. The following are the results:

At Sub-regional level:

  • Own arrangement by Full choir was position 1
  • Set Piece by Full Choir was position 2
  • Tenor Solo by Ethan Kipchumba was position 7
  • Bass Solo by Terrence Nyiha was position 1
  • Bass Solo by Ray Gachanja and Ryan Gachanja were positions 5 and 6 respectively.
  • Piano Advanced by Darrel Langat was position 3
  • Clarinet by Colin Osidiana was position 9
  • Violin intermediate Josemaria Omondi was position 10
  • Piano intermediate by Justin Kamau was position 3

At Regional level:

  • Own arrangement by Full choir was position 2
  • Set Piece by Full Choir was position 6
  • Bass Solo by Terrence Nyiha was position 5
  • Piano Advanced by Darrel Langat was position 4
  • Piano intermediate by Justin Kamau was position 3
  • Own arrangement by Full choir will proceed to the Nationals in Eldoret in August.

The following are the results for both regional and sub-regional levels:

At Sub-regional level:

  • Own arrangement by Grade 3 boys Full choir was position 1
  • Set Piece by Grade 3 boys Full Choir was position 2
  • Choir patriotic song by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir set piece by Upper Primary boys was position 4
  • Choir Class 264 by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir Class 263 by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir Class 257 by Upper Primary boys was position 2
  • Choir Equity setpiece by Upper Primary boys was position 4
  • Choir Own Composition ‘NACADA’ by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir Own Composition ‘Plant Trees’ by Upper Primary boys was position 1

JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL

  • Full choir class 323 by Junior Secondary School boys was position 1
  • Choir Own Composition ‘Plant Trees’ by Junior Secondary School boys was position 1
  • Full choir class 324 by Junior Secondary School boys was position 1
  • Own arrangement by Junior Secondary School Full choir was position 2
  • Violin by Amiel Nyandigisi was position 1
  • Piano Advanced by Jonathan Mwangi was position 1
  • Clarinet by Jonathan Mwangi was position 1
  • Flute Aiden Mwiga position 1
  • Brass Saxophone Austin Muniu position 2
  • Guitar Seita Abondo and Keen Njiru position 2

REGIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL AT MOI FORCES.

  • Choir ‘Tupande Miti’ by Upper Primary boys was position 3
  • Piano Advanced by Jonathan Mwangi was position 1
  • Duet Piano Advanced by Jerome Kamande and Nathan Kuria was position 1
  • Piano Advanced by Jonathan Mwangi was position 1
  • Full choir class 324 ‘African American Spiritual’ by Junior Secondary School boys was position 1
  • French Public Speaking by Dante Mbugua was Position 1
  • Violin Advanced by Amiel Nyandigisi was position 1
  • Clarinet by Jonathan Mwangi was position 1
  • Junior Secondary Boy child Own Composition class 323 was position 1
  • Upper Primary Own composition ‘Uraia’ was position 2
  • Flute by Aiden Mwiga was position 4
  • Own arrangement ‘Kenya Twasonga Mbele’ by Grade 3 boys Full choir was position 3
  • Choir Own Composition ‘NACADA’ by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir Own Composition ‘K.I.C.D’ by Upper Primary boys was position 1
  • Choir Own Composition ‘Anti Counterfeit’ by Upper Primary boys was position 1

All classes which were position 1 and 2 in the Regional level will proceed to the Nationals at Eldoret in August.

The 2023 season has been a wild ride for Strathmore School’s U19 volleyball team. After a shaky start at the Rosslyn Volleyball tournament, they bounced back with a vengeance in the Westlands sub-county games, showcasing their remarkable resilience and determination.

The team’s journey began with a series of impressive wins in the group stage against Nairobi School, Aga Khan High School, and Farasi Lane High School. Here are the highlights:

* Strathmore School dominated Nairobi School, Aga Khan High School, and Farasi Lane High School, securing convincing wins.
* In a thrilling friendly match against German School, Strathmore School staged a remarkable comeback, winning 2-3 after losing the first two sets. The final set was a nail-biter, with Strathmore School emerging victorious.
* In the sub-county game against Nairobi School, they fought hard to secure a 2-1 win, with a thrilling 28-26 victory in the first set.

As we reflect on the season, it’s clear that our team has made incredible strides. They emerged 2nd in their group and secured a spot in the semi-finals on June 15th.

In the semi-finals, they faced Kangemi High School and although they put up a good fight, ultimately lost 0-3. This loss was a testament to their determination and never-give-up attitude.

In the 3rd and 4th place playoff against Nairobi School, our team pushed them to three sets before ultimately finishing in 4th place. Although it wasn’t the outcome they were hoping for, it was a valiant effort that showcased their growth and development throughout the season.

As we close the book on 2023, our team can hold their heads high. They’ve gained invaluable experience, honed new skills and created memories that will last a lifetime. The future is bright for this talented team and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for them next season!

 

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