Learning at Kithyoko Primary School in Machakos County was yesterday paralyzed after parents withdrew their children in protest against the transfer of the school’s headteacher.
The parents, who staged a peaceful demonstration outside the school compound on Thursday morning, said they were shocked by the sudden move by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to reassign the headteacher, barely a term after he was posted to the institution.
According to the parents, the head teacher identified only as Mr. Mandera had only been at the school for a short time, yet he had already begun implementing reforms that had greatly motivated both learners and teachers.
They noted that under his leadership, discipline had improved, academic performance was beginning to show signs of growth, and there was renewed hope in the school’s management.
“We were happy with the way he was running the school. For the first time in a long while, we could see positive change. The transfer is unfair and uncalled for. Most of us have never set eyes on him but we could see his work,” said one of the parents.
ALSO READ:
MoE to conclude ghost schools probe today, culprits to face the law; Ogamba says
The aggrieved parents alleged that the sudden transfer was influenced by the school’s sponsor, whom they accused of interfering with the running of the institution.
They claimed the sponsor played a role in ensuring the headteacher was removed because he was a Muslim. Chanting slogans and carrying placards, the parents vowed not to return their children to class until their demands were met.
“We will keep our children at home until Mr. Mandera is reinstated. We cannot allow politics and personal interests to destroy our children’s future,” another parent added.
The protest has left learners at home, raising concerns about lost study time, especially as the end-of-year examinations approach.
Local education officials have urged calm, assuring parents that dialogue is underway to resolve the matter.
“We are aware of the concerns raised, and we are engaging all stakeholders, including the sponsor and the TSC, to find a lasting solution,” said a representative from the education office.
Meanwhile, calls are growing for the Ministry of Education to intervene swiftly to ensure learning resumes. Parents insist they will not compromise on their stand, signaling that the stalemate may continue unless action is taken because the teacher was taken to anearby school.
“He was taken to Kangonde even from here we can point at Kangonde.let him be brought back,”argued another parent.
By Agnes Orang’o
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
