Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has directed strict enforcement of policies requiring footbridges for schools located near busy roads, saying the absence of safe crossing infrastructure poses serious risks to learners and demands urgent intervention. He said schools situated along major highways without designated crossing points expose students to danger and that corrective measures would be taken without delay.
Speaking at Kamahuha Girls High School in Murang’a County during a tour to assess Grade 10 reporting to senior school, Ogamba underscored that learner safety remains a top priority alongside the rollout of the Competency‑Based Education system. He noted that safety infrastructure must keep pace with the transition to senior school to ensure learning continues in secure environments.
The CS also urged education stakeholders and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) to intensify efforts against the sale and abuse of drugs and other substances around learning institutions. He stressed that shielding schools from drug peddlers is essential to maintaining supportive, disciplined spaces where learners can thrive.
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Maragua MP Mary Wamaua echoed the CS’s concerns, saying her constituency continues to grapple with alcohol, drug, and substance abuse, particularly in marginalized and vulnerable areas. “We acknowledge this challenge, and we will work with all stakeholders to ensure Maragua becomes safe for our children,” she said.
Wamaua called on the County Government to tighten control over licensing of bars and alcohol outlets near schools, arguing that proximity to such establishments undermines learner safety and community efforts to curb substance abuse. She said coordinated action between national and county agencies is necessary to protect students and restore safe learning environments.
By Masaki Enock
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