-
Senators Catherine Mumma and Veronica Mainahas presented a proposal to gradually phase out fully boarding schools and replace them with a hybrid day-boarding system to address student unrest, school fires, and safety concerns.
-
The motion also calls for stricter fire safety measures, increased investment in emergency response infrastructure, and a comprehensive inquiry into the causes of school unrest.
A proposal seeking the gradual elimination of boarding schools across Kenya has been tabled in the Senate, with lawmakers arguing that the move could help address persistent cases of student unrest, arson attacks, and insecurity in learning institutions.
The motion, sponsored by Senators Catherine Mumma and Veronica Maina and presented on Wednesday, June 17, calls on the Ministry of Education to develop a framework for transitioning from fully boarding schools to a hybrid model that combines both day and boarding learning arrangements.
According to the senators, recurring school fires have continued to disrupt learning, endanger students, and expose weaknesses in safety and student welfare systems. They contend that a hybrid approach would reduce risks associated with student unrest while providing greater flexibility for learners and their families.
The proposal also seeks to strengthen safety standards in schools by making annual fire safety audits mandatory for all boarding institutions. Schools would be required to install adequate emergency exits, firefighting equipment, and fire detection systems.
ALSO READ:
Former Kaimosi University employee charged over fake degree, earned Ksh 6.3Million
In addition, the lawmakers want schools to implement comprehensive evacuation procedures and disaster response plans to improve preparedness and minimize the impact of emergencies.
The motion further directs the Ministry of Education to submit a report on recommendations arising from previous investigations into school fires. The report would assess the extent to which past recommendations have been implemented and identify gaps that need to be addressed.
The senators argue that reviewing lessons from previous tragedies is essential in preventing future incidents and enhancing student safety.
The proposal urges both national and county governments to increase investment in firefighting infrastructure, emergency response systems, disaster management training, and communication equipment.
It also calls on the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to strengthen student discipline and learner welfare programmes. Meanwhile, the Senate Education Committee would be tasked with conducting a comprehensive inquiry into the causes of school unrest and presenting its findings and recommendations within 90 days.
The move comes as the call to abolish boarding schools in Kenya grows louder. Recently, Lurambi Member of Parliament (MP) Titus Khamala also vowed to table a bill in parliament to abolish the schools.
The legislator argued that parents have abandoned their responsibilities while schools struggle with overcrowding, inadequate facilities and mounting indiscipline challenges.
By Juma Ndigo
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
