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Government to establish a multi-sector task force that will, for the first time, include students in efforts to address the growing wave of unrest in schools across the country.
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According CS Ogamba the team will conduct a comprehensive review of the causes of school unrest and recommend long-term solutions aimed at restoring discipline, improving learner welfare, and promoting peaceful coexistence in learning institutions.
The government has announced plans to establish a multi-sector task force that will, for the first time, include students in efforts to address the growing wave of unrest in schools across the country.
The move comes after a series of arson incidents and violent disturbances that have disrupted learning and claimed the lives of several students in recent months.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the team will conduct a comprehensive review of the causes of school unrest and recommend long-term solutions aimed at restoring discipline, improving learner welfare, and promoting peaceful coexistence in learning institutions.
Unlike previous committees that largely consisted of government officials and education stakeholders, the new task force will bring together students, parents, teachers, school heads, religious leaders, psychologists, security agencies, child protection experts and other key stakeholders to ensure a more inclusive approach.
Ogamba said involving learners directly is essential because they are at the centre of the crisis and can help identify practical solutions.
“We want every stakeholder to be part of the conversation. By listening to students and other education partners, we hope to address the root causes of unrest rather than focusing only on punishment,” he said.
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The announcement follows an alarming rise in school disturbances recorded since the start of the second term, including numerous fires, attempted arson attacks, and destruction of school property.
Several learners have also lost their lives in incidents linked to the unrest.
According to the Education Ministry, the task force will investigate factors contributing to unrest, including mental health challenges, drug and substance abuse, peer pressure, social media influence, family instability and anxiety associated with academic expectations and education reforms.
Ogamba emphasized that schools should not only focus on academic excellence but also prioritize learners’ emotional well-being, counselling services, and supportive environments that reduce tensions before they escalate into violence.
The findings and recommendations of the task force are expected to guide future government policies on school discipline, learner welfare and crisis prevention across the country’s education sector.
By Kithinji Njeru
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