The government through the Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced a raft of measures aimed at addressing rising cases of unrest in schools, after 204 senior schools across the country were reported to have experienced incidents of indiscipline in recent weeks.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday June 10, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba said the government is treating the matter with “utmost seriousness,” noting that although less than 2% of schools have been affected, the impact has been severe—particularly in boarding senior schools.
The ministry confirmed that most affected institutions are boarding schools, while day schools and basic education institutions from Grades 1 to 9 have largely remained stable.
The statement also revisited the tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru county, where 16 learners lost their lives.
The ministry revealed that investigations established the fire was an act of arson allegedly orchestrated by some learners.
Nine suspects have since been arraigned and are being held in custody as investigations continue.
The government expressed condolences to bereaved families and wished injured learners a quick recovery.
According to the Ministry, preliminary analysis points to multiple causes behind the unrest, including leadership challenges in schools, exam-related stress, poor boarding conditions, substance abuse, peer influence and copycat behavior among students.
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Learners are also reportedly demanding early release from school in some instances.
CS Ogamba emphasized that while grievances may exist, “there can never be justification for causing death and destroying property,” warning that perpetrators will face legal consequences.
To address the crisis, the government will establish a multi-stakeholder team to review the root causes of school unrest and propose long-term solutions.
The ministry also announced that the second-term mid-term break for 2026 will proceed as scheduled from 24th to 28th June, urging parents to use the period to engage with their children and address any concerns.
Schools have further been directed to convene Parents Association meetings, strengthen guidance and counselling programmes and improve learner grievance-handling mechanisms.
County and sub-county education offices will also carry out safety audits in institutions considered at risk.
The ministry said it will also rationalize the school calendar starting next academic year to ensure more balanced learning terms.
CS Ogamba called on all stakeholders—including government agencies, parents, school administrators and teachers—to work together to restore discipline and safeguard learners.
“This is a shared responsibility to ensure our education system serves the best interests of our children and the future of our country,” the statement read.
By Kithinji Njeru
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