Brisk business for bookstores, suppliers as schools resume

With schools reopening, suppliers and vendors of learning materials are earnestly readying to meet clients’ needs.

Bold font advertisements dangle from bookstore ceilings announcing tantalizing offers as footfalls grow by the hour in one of the leading bookstore chains in the country.

“We are fully stocked up on course books, learning materials, and any other school supplies. We have also received a full range of books for Grade Seven from some publishers,” said Moses Ndiema, branch manager Text Book Centre.

Ndiema stated that the store began receiving Grade 7 books covering all approved learning areas in late December. He anticipates more books in the coming days as publishers release them.

 “The challenge for most parents, especially those with Grade 7 students is that they were not given a booklist before schools closed so they do not know the books that are required,” Ndiema explained.

As learning resumes, the maiden Grade 7 cohorts will be reporting to class to interact with new learning materials prescribed by the competency-based curriculum (CBC).

The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD ) has established about 14 learning areas for Grade 7 consequently approving at least 73 books.

The government affirmed it will furnish public Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) with course books of the various outlined subjects while the private schools are expected to make their arrangements.

Ndiema said the cost of printing paper has risen slightly occasioning a cost implication on books and others materials.

Most of the course books in the bookstore chain range from Sh350 - Sh600 depending on the publisher.

In a departure from the ordinary when schools opened in early January, learning institutions will be opening on January 23, affording parents and guardians more time to organize their finances observed Ndiema.

The bookstore extended its operating hours to 7pm and ramped up staff as it anticipates a last-minute rash- classic Kenyan style.

In the sprawling Uhuru Market machines whirl in every corner as traders crisscross the market shouldering uniforms.

“Business will be picking up in the next few days so we are stocking up on uniforms,” said Ann Kabia

Kabi’s stall is domiciled on the fringes of the old market which is well favored by parents for its pricing point and diversity.

According to Kabia the cost of some fabrics such as twill, cotton, and drill have gone up by about 50 per cent.