he assembly hall buzzed with anticipation-students fidgeting in their seats, teachers exchanging knowing glances, and parents waiting patiently in the back rows.

Bernard Guantai, the youngest son of Sylvester and Lucia Guantai, adjusted his posture on the podium of St Paul's High School, Kivote, Embu.

Bernard inhaled sharply, scanning the sea of expectant faces.

Then, his gaze landed on them-his unwavering anchors.