Confusion has spread among parents, students, and teachers across Kenya following online claims suggesting that schools would remain closed until January 15, 2026.
Several social media posts and widely shared WhatsApp messages alleged that the government had quietly extended the school holiday, sparking concern over possible disruptions to the academic calendar.
Government Responds to School Reopening Claims
The Ministry of Education has firmly dismissed the reports, terming them false and misleading. The ministry confirmed that no official announcement has been made to alter the previously published school reopening date.
Official 2026 School Reopening Date Confirmed
According to the official 2026 academic calendar, all schools across Kenya are scheduled to reopen on:
Monday, January 5, 2026
This date marks the beginning of Term One for the 2026 academic year.
The ministry emphasized that any changes to the school calendar whether due to extreme weather, public emergencies, or unforeseen national events would be communicated formally through:
* National media outlets
* Official ministry platforms
* Direct school communication channels
Parents Express Concern Over Fake News
Many parents have expressed frustration over the spread of unverified information, noting that such rumors cause unnecessary panic and confusion during school holidays.
Education officials warned that misinformation tends to increase during long breaks, especially when unofficial sources publish sensational claims without verification.
Ministry Urges Public to Rely on Official Sources
Parents, guardians, and school administrators have been advised to rely strictly on:
* Official government statements
* Trusted local media
* Notices issued directly by schools
The ministry reiterated that claims of schools reopening on January 15 are not true.
Final Verdict
Schools will reopen on Monday, January 5, 2026
No extension to January 15 has been announced
Parents are encouraged to prepare learners accordingly and ignore misleading social media reports.
