Sonko asks KNEC to offer Special exams for Junior Starlets in FIFA U-17 contest

By Robert Mutasi 

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko urged government to take into consideration holding Special National Examinations for Kenya’s Junior Starlets, who will be competing in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Indonesia. 

Speaking on Tuesday morning, Sonko emphasized that the problem of the national examination scheduled during the World Cup is not addressed while announcing his sponsorship of fifty cheerleaders to assist the U-17 women's team.

"As an avid football fan, I am happy that our daughters have brought us joy.

But if we do not stand with them during this momentous occasion, we might not get the chance to shine again," Sonko stated.

Sonko stressed that the examination schedule for the young girls may be affected by the absence of a provisional Sports Cabinet Secretary and the football federation's silence on the subject. 

A few athletes have already voiced their worries that they might have to postpone their exams until the following year if no plans are made in advance to reschedule them.

"I would not want to miss this historic opportunity for our nation. 

I am not willing to miss the World Cup—it cannot be rescheduled if the government does not offer guidance." Junior Starlet forward Marion Serenge stated. 

The team's intense training and preparation for the World Cup will take center stage. 

The players are confident in their skills despite knowing they will be up against tough competition.

This year, eight players under the guidance of Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche are candidates for the KCSE exams, which will begin on October 22—four days following rehearsals.

The players must be present in the South American nation for the competition, as this will take place six days after the Dominican Republic's opening ceremony.

From October 16 to November 3, the FIFA U17 World Cup will be held in the Dominican Republic, and the team has qualified for it.