Bungoma County has emerged as the leading hotspot for student unrest in Western Kenya, with five schools having been temporarily closed following student strikes, education authorities have confirmed.
According to the Western Regional Director of Education, Jared Obiero, the Ministry of Education is currently investigating the incidents that have affected five schools in Bungoma County. He noted that neighboring Kakamega County has recorded three similar cases, bringing the total number of student strike incidents in the Western region to eight so far.
Obiero spoke during celebrations marking the elevation of St Cecilia Girls High School to national school status. He expressed concern over the increasing cases of unrest in learning institutions and called for collective efforts to address the underlying causes.
Speaking at the same event, Assistant Deputy County Commissioner Alex Nganyi urged students to uphold discipline and avoid engaging in strikes, which have become increasingly common in schools across the country. He emphasized that discipline remains a key pillar of academic success and personal development.
Meanwhile, Diocese of Bungoma Bishop Mark Kadima, who presided over the thanksgiving mass during the celebration, called on students to respect their teachers and school authorities. He also challenged parents and the wider community to promote strong moral values among young people.
Education stakeholders have continued to express concern over the rise in student unrest, warning that disruptions to learning could negatively impact academic performance and school operations if not urgently addressed.
The latest incidents come amid renewed efforts by education officials, religious leaders, and administrators to foster discipline and create conducive learning environments in schools across the region.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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