- Students could be drawn into planned Gen-Z June 25 commemoration as schools release the aarly for mid term.
- The concern has emerged as schools opt for precautionary early mid-term breaks ahead of commemorations marking the June 25, 2024 youth-led protests.
- Education stakeholders have also cautioned that frequent disruptions are negatively impacting academic progress.
Parents have raised concerns that students currently at home for the mid-term break could be drawn into planned anti-government protests.
This comes as schools defend the early break, saying it is a precautionary measure intended to protect learners from potential risks while travelling home.
The concern has emerged as schools opt for precautionary early mid-term breaks ahead of commemorations marking the June 25, 2024 youth-led protests.
While institutions are sending learners home early due to fears of risks during travel, parents now warn of a different threat- that students, particularly teenagers, could end up getting involved in the demonstrations while at home.
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“It is prudent for schools to release learners early. It allows them to get home safely. We are also concerned that learners may be lured into participating in protests,” said National Parents Association chairman Silas Obuhatsa.
His remarks highlight growing concern among parents who fear that students may be influenced by peer pressure, social media, or curiosity to take part in protests.
The concern stems from painful memories of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, which turned violent in several parts of the country.
At least 15 people were killed, hundreds were arrested, and widespread property destruction was reported as police and demonstrators clashed in chaotic scenes that also disrupted learning nationwide. Among the victims were students and other young learners whose lives were either cut short or permanently changed.
Education stakeholders have also cautioned that frequent disruptions are negatively impacting academic progress.
Kenya Secondary Schools Association chairman Willie Kuria defended the early closures, noting that schools are acting cautiously based on past experiences and current security concerns.
“It is better for learners to arrive home in good time before Thursday. Apart from the protests themselves, learners may encounter transport challenges,” he said.
By Frank Mugwe
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