Fifty-six children celebrated their graduation from St. Francis of Assisi Academy in Marereni, Kenya, on Oct. 21. Families, teachers and Sisters of Charity of Nazareth gathered for music, dancing and thanksgiving. The celebration also marked the school’s official registration as Marereni Catholic Primary School, opening new opportunities for students.
Submitted by Sister Helan Sathiya, SCN | More photos and video available here.
It was a joyful morning at St. Francis of Assisi Academy in Marereni, Kenya, as 56 children celebrated their graduation from pre-primary school on Oct. 21, 2026. Teachers and students made final preparations while families and invited guests gathered to recognize the young graduates, who will enter first grade next year. Excitement filled the school grounds as music welcomed parents, community leaders, and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth for a celebration of the children’s accomplishments and the school’s continued growth.
Among the special guests were Father Dennis Nyagwencha, education director for the Catholic Diocese of Malindi; members of the school’s board; Emma Mundu, former chairperson of the Marereni church; and the proud families of the graduates. The program began with a performance by the school scouts, followed by prayers of thanksgiving and blessings for the children and school community. Students from the first year of preprimary school delighted the audience with poetry, while second graders performed a traditional Giriama dance. The performances reflected the joy, creativity, and cultural traditions that are part of daily life at the school.
The most anticipated moment came when the 56 graduates, dressed in their graduation gowns, proudly made their way onto the stage. Their smiles brought cheers and applause from parents, teachers, and fellow students who had gathered to celebrate their achievements. Fourth graders welcomed the graduates with a special poem offering congratulations and wishes for their future. The young graduates then took center stage, sharing poems, dances, and expressions of gratitude to their teachers, school, and families. Their confidence and enthusiasm reflected the progress they had made during their early years of education.
One particularly touching moment came during a poem expressing a child’s appreciation for a parent’s love and support. “My father is my superhero because he works hard to provide what I need and helps me with my homework.” The simple words reminded those gathered of the important role families play in helping children learn and succeed. Later in the celebration, parents lifted their children into their arms and danced with them, sharing in the happiness of the occasion. Families also presented gifts to the graduates and expressed appreciation for the performances and the care their children receive at school.
The invited guests congratulated the graduates and recognized the efforts of the teachers, school leadership, and families who support their education. Father Nyagwencha offered special appreciation to the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth for their work alongside the community and their commitment to making education available to more children. Since beginning their ministry in Kenya, the Sisters have worked closely with local teachers and families to strengthen St. Francis of Assisi Academy. Their efforts have included supporting students whose families face financial difficulties, improving school facilities, and helping the school expand to serve additional grade levels. Through this shared commitment, the school continues to provide opportunities for children to learn, grow, and prepare for their futures.
The celebration also included an important announcement about the school’s future. Acting Principal Harrison Kalama informed those gathered that St. Francis of Assisi Academy would officially be known as Marereni Catholic Primary School following the school’s receipt of its registration certificate from Kenya’s Ministry of Education in September 2026. The achievement marks an important milestone for the school and the Sisters, who worked toward official registration for nearly two years. The announcement was welcomed as another sign of progress for an educational ministry that continues to grow in response to the needs of children and families in Marereni.
As the celebration continued, each graduate received a certificate and gifts recognizing the successful completion of preprimary education. The presentations were met with applause from proud parents and teachers who had accompanied the children throughout their learning. The day concluded with a shared meal, giving families, guests, teachers, and students an opportunity to celebrate together. School leaders expressed gratitude to everyone who helped organize the event, particularly the teachers and students whose efforts made the occasion possible.
For the 56 graduates, the day marked both an achievement and the beginning of another chapter in their education. For their families and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, it was an opportunity to recognize how much the children have grown and the importance of continued access to quality education. The celebration reflected the strong relationships among the Sisters, teachers, parents, and wider community that help make Marereni Catholic Primary School a place where children can discover their abilities, build confidence, and look toward the future with hope.