- Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has attributed rising cases of school unrest to declining discipline among learners.
- The governor says Kenya should have a national conversation on the possible reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools.
- He also challenged parents to take greater responsibility in guiding and disciplining their children.
By Kimutai Langat
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has linked the recent wave of student unrest in schools to declining discipline among learners and called for tougher measures, including the possible reintroduction of corporal punishment.
Speaking in Iten, the governor said the country was witnessing an alarming rise in school disturbances that threaten learning and academic performance.
“The increasing cases of unrest in our schools are a clear indication that discipline among learners is deteriorating. We must address this issue urgently,” said Rotich.
Calls for National Debate
The governor argued that corporal punishment previously played an important role in maintaining order and respect within learning institutions.
“Corporal punishment helped shape responsible citizens and kept discipline levels high. We should have a serious conversation about its place in our schools,” he said.
Rotich criticised what he described as excessive student empowerment, warning that some learners had become emboldened to challenge school authority.
“When students begin negotiating every decision with teachers and administrators, schools risk losing control. Education requires structure and discipline,” he said.
Parents Urged to Play Their Role
The governor also challenged parents to take a more active role in guiding and disciplining their children.
“Many parents have abandoned their responsibilities and expect teachers to do everything. Discipline starts at home before it reaches the classroom,” he said.
Citing the recent incident at Utumishi Girls Academy, Rotich said acts of arson and destruction of school property were evidence of a worrying trend.
“It is shocking that students can deliberately set fire to mattresses and school facilities. Such behaviour should not be tolerated,” he stated.
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Parents attending the event echoed the governor’s sentiments, saying stronger disciplinary measures were needed to restore order in schools.
The debate comes at a time when more than 204 secondary schools nationwide have reportedly been affected by student unrest, disrupting learning and forcing some institutions to temporarily suspend operations.
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