Students and Teachers of Makindu Girls' High School celebrate exemplary results. Photo by Mutune wa Ngumu. 
By Mutune wa Ngumu
A little-known secondary school deep in the interior of Makueni County has emerged as one of the most improved institutions in the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, offering a powerful story of resilience, sacrifice, and hope.
Makindu Girls High School recorded the best improvement in the region, posting an impressive positive deviation of 1.5 after raising its mean score from 5.5 in 2024 to 7.0 in 2025. The remarkable academic leap has placed the school among the top most improved schools nationally.
Beyond the numbers, the results tell a deeper story of opportunity created against the odds. The school also achieved a major milestone, with 58 per cent of its candidates attaining the minimum university entry grade — a rare feat for an institution that has long catered for girls from extremely disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking after the release of the results, the school principal, Ms. Mary Muisyo, attributed the success to sacrifice, teamwork, faith, and an unwavering commitment to uplift village girls who often join the school with nothing but hope.
“We have made many sacrifices accommodating students who had absolutely nothing,” Ms. Muisyo said. “Some walked through this gate with only an envelope. We even had a student who came without shoes, without clothes, and without results — and we clothed her and allowed her into class.”
She revealed that in the graduating class alone, at least seven students were fully accommodated despite being unable to pay school fees.
“They were just here, but today we are satisfied. Whatever they have given us, we are truly grateful because they have not let us down,” she said.
Ms. Muisyo credited the school’s transformation to God’s grace and collective effort by teachers, parents, and learners.
“I want to thank God for the energy He has given me to lead this team — the teachers and the students — and for giving me a big heart to accommodate every child. I also thank my parents, my teachers, and everyone who supported us along the way.”
Among the top performers were Faith Mumo, Beatrice Kilonzo, and Trace Mutio, who each scored an A– and now aspire to pursue medical-related courses.
Faith Mumo, one of the top students, described the achievement as a product of faith, discipline, and strong mentorship.
“I am proud to be a top grader. I thank God for granting me this A minus,” she said. “It has not been easy, but through the support of my teachers, my parents, and thorough revision, it became possible.”
She singled out the principal for her hands-on leadership during the examination period.
“My principal was with us from the time we started examinations until the very end. She walked with us through the entire journey, and we truly appreciate her. She did an amazing job,” Faith added.
The students also praised the teachers for consistent guidance, care, and mentorship, noting that the supportive learning environment played a critical role in their success.
The 2025 KCSE results mark a turning point for Makindu Girls High School, firmly positioning it as a beacon of hope for disadvantaged girls in rural Makueni County — and a reminder that with compassion, commitment, and belief, even the most overlooked schools can rise to national prominence.
