- Religious and community leaders in the North Rift have called for greater parental supervision during the August holiday.
- They have cautioned against excessive freedom and uncontrolled access to phones and computers among children.
- The leaders want parents, teachers and religious institutions to work together to guide and protect children.
Religious leaders in the North Rift have urged parents to closely monitor their children during the August holiday, warning that excessive freedom could expose them to irresponsible behaviour.
The leaders, led by Sheikh Abubakar Bini, said parents have a responsibility to safeguard their children and guide them towards responsible conduct while they are away from school.
Speaking to the press, Sheikh Bini cautioned parents against giving children unlimited freedom, saying a lack of supervision could have negative consequences.
“Giving children too much freedom is counterproductive and could see them engage in irresponsible behaviour,” Bini said.
He urged parents to take an active role in shaping the character of their children by monitoring their activities and the company they keep during the holiday.
Bini also called on parents to regulate their children’s use of mobile phones and computers, saying excessive access to digital devices could expose them to inappropriate content and influence their behaviour.
“Parents should limit the use of phones and computers by their children and ensure they know what their children are doing online,” he said.
The Sheikh noted that religious leaders had an important role to play in guiding young people and shaping their future, urging parents to work closely with religious institutions in instilling good values.
Elders caution parents
The Kipsigis Council of Elders also supported the call for increased parental supervision during the holiday.
Council chairperson Richard Ngeno cautioned parents against abdicating their responsibilities, saying raising children should not be left to teachers, religious leaders or other members of society.
“Parents should not abdicate their responsibilities. It is unacceptable for them to leave the upbringing of their children entirely to other people,” Ngeno said.
He urged parents to use the holiday period to spend more time with their children, understand their challenges and provide guidance as they prepare to return to school.
Ngeno also encouraged parents to bless their children, saying parental blessings can motivate young people and give them confidence as they pursue their education and other aspirations.
“Parents should bless their children because this gives them encouragement and motivation to work hard and become better members of society,” he said.
The council chairman also thanked teachers for their role in safeguarding children while they are in school, saying educators complement parents in providing guidance and protection.
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The leaders called for closer cooperation among parents, teachers, religious leaders and community elders to ensure children remain safe and uphold responsible behaviour throughout the holiday.
By Kimutai Langat
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