THIKA, Kenya — The Mangu High School Alumni Association has defended the national secondary school admissions system, saying it promotes diversity, fairness, and national unity.
In a statement issued on January 7, 2026, the alumni group said recent claims targeting Mangu High School misrepresent the purpose of national schools and the principles behind Kenya’s placement policy.
The association responded to remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which questioned the admission of students to Mangu High School.
While acknowledging the right of leaders to raise public interest issues, the alumni said Mangu remains a national institution open to all qualified students.
“Mangu High School admits students based on clearly defined national quotas,” the statement said. “These quotas reflect Kenya’s diversity and have existed long before the current placement system.”
The alumni group said admissions at Mangu have never been restricted by ethnicity, religion or region. Any student who meets the national criteria qualifies for admission.
They described Mangu as a symbol of academic excellence and a training ground for national leadership drawn from all parts of the country.
The association warned that calls to exclude certain communities from national schools undermine inclusivity and risk deepening division.
“National schools exist to bring together Kenya’s brightest minds,” the statement said. “They foster shared identity, mutual understanding and unity.”
The alumni also rejected suggestions that communities should build new schools to accommodate students from specific regions, saying such narratives weaken national cohesion.
At the same time, they acknowledged concerns about the placement process. They urged the Ministry of Education to review operational challenges, including cases where students are placed far from home.
The group said any review must remain guided by policy, data and fairness. It should not compromise the national character of schools.
The alumni called on leaders and stakeholders to engage the debate with restraint and accuracy. They urged commitment to national unity.
“Mangu High School belongs to all Kenyans,” the statement said. “It remains open to every deserving student.”
