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KNUT Elgeyo Marakwet concerned over rising school unrest, urging collective action.
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Branch Executive Secretary Salome Kiplagat warned that excessive freedom without supervision can lead learners into misconduct.
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Concerns were raised over uncontrolled use of mobile phones and digital devices among learners.
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She called for a review of children’s rights policies to ensure they are not misused to evade discipline.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) in Elgeyo Marakwet has expressed concern over the increasing incidents of learner unrest in schools and called for collective action to restore discipline.
Addressing journalists in Iten town, Branch Executive Secretary Salome Kiplagat said the trend poses a serious threat to education and the future of learners.
“School unrest affects academic programmes, destroys property and interferes with the future of the learners involved,” she said.
Kiplagat emphasized that discipline should not be left to teachers alone, saying parents, sponsors and the wider community have a critical role to play.
“Discipline is a shared responsibility. Every stakeholder must play their part if we are to raise responsible citizens,” she stated.
She challenged parents to take a more active role in their children’s lives, warning against excessive freedom and inadequate supervision.
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“Children need guidance and direction. Too much freedom without proper monitoring can easily lead them astray,” she said.
The KNUT branch secretary also urged parents to regulate their children’s use of mobile phones and digital devices.
“While technology has its benefits, uncontrolled access to gadgets can expose learners to harmful content and negative influences,” she warned.
Kiplagat further called for a review of children’s rights policies, saying some learners exploit the protections to avoid accountability.
“We need a balance between protecting children’s rights and ensuring discipline is maintained. Rights should not be used as a shield for misconduct,” she said.
She urged stakeholders to support disciplinary measures and ensure learners face appropriate consequences for wrongdoing.
Additionally, Kiplagat encouraged parents to engage their children in constructive activities during school holidays and weekends.
“Keeping children busy with productive activities reduces idleness and helps keep them away from harmful behaviour,” she noted.
Her appeal comes at a time when cases of school unrest are reportedly on the rise in different parts of the country, drawing concern from education authorities and the government.
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