By Enock Okong’o
Students of Igonga Secondary School in Kisii South sub county were forced to spend the night in the cold after their dormitory was gutted down by fire.
According to the area chief Mr. Benjamin Opanga the fire broke out at around 2 AM while learners were fast asleep.
“The fire startled students who woke up and ran for their lives,” he said.
They raised alarm but by the time villagers and fire fighters from Kisii County arrived, the dormitory had already been reduced to ashes.
“The whole building housing 197 students went down as students and teachers watched helplessly,” he reported.
Mr. Opanga said that the police had commenced investigations to establish the cause of the fire.
On Wednesday morning, parents reported at the school in numbers to check on their children.
“We thank God that none of our children were hurt during the incident although a lot of property was destroyed,” said Peterson Nyakundi, one of the parents.
Kisii County Education Board chairman, Prof Henry Onderi was among the first government officials to visit the troubled school.
“I came here with my team to check on our children and empathize with them,” he said.
He appealed to the police to hasten the investigations so the school could chart the way forward.
Prof. Onderi lauded the school for ensuring ventilation and quick exits in the dormitory that enabled its occupants to escape unhurt.
He appealed to well wishers to visit the school and assist learners to procure items they lost in the incident.
“I appeal to all to come and assist these students to get back on their feet and continue with their studies,” he said.
The school’s Principal and his deputy declined to comment on the matter but promised to provide details later.
