Last Friday was the end of the 2025 sub-county drama and film festivals for primary and Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) across Kenya. The two-day event was full of amazing performances with JSS teachers playing a big role in writing and directing the shows.
For the first time in many years, drama enthusiasts thronged festival venues to watch revitalized performances led by JSS teachers. This year’s festivals were better proof that JSS teachers are creative and committed.
Revival of Drama in Busia and Rift Valley
In Busia County, many performances written and directed by JSS teachers attracted big crowds. The competition was tough as learners competed for top positions in different categories including:
- Plays
- Cultural and creative dances
- Modern creative dances
- Solo verses
In Rift Valley, the festivals were a resurgence. Many schools in the region had dropped out of the festivals in the past due to lack of teacher interest and funding for extracurricular activities. But this year JSS teachers took matters into their own hands and financed students’ participation in some cases.
Education officials said JSS teachers’ involvement in writing and directing the performances was a game-changer, bringing back the passion and making the drama and film festivals great again.
Impact of CBC
The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has good impact on the festivals, encouraging learners to explore and showcase their talent. A highlight was the dramatized news presentations which gave students a platform to showcase their journalism skills.
As the competition moves to the county level, all eyes are now on JSS teachers to polish their performances so as to get slots at the regional and national stages.
More Funding Required
More funding for co-curricular activities is required, say stakeholders, as they are key to achieving CBC’s objectives. Drama and film festivals have shown that with resources and teacher involvement learners can go beyond the class and develop all round skills.