Kisii: Nyatieko Principal raises alarm over neglect of boy child, rising dropout cases

• Nyatieko Secondary School principal has raised concerns over neglect of boy child and rising dropout cases in Kitutu Chache South.

• James Omwenga expressed concern that while significant progress has been made in empowering the girl child, many boys are increasingly being left without sufficient guidance and mentorship.

The Principal of Nyatieko Secondary School in Kitutu Chache South constituency has raised concern over the growing neglect of the boy child and increasing dropout cases, warning that the trend could undermine the future of Kisii County if not urgently addressed.

Speaking to Education News at the school, James Omwenga urged education stakeholders in Kisii to prioritize quality education for all children in order to safeguard the county’s future workforce. He cautioned that failure to adequately prepare learners could lead to a shortage of professionals in critical fields such as medicine, engineering, teaching, and other key sectors.

Omwenga expressed concern that while significant progress has been made in empowering the girl child, many boys are increasingly being left without sufficient guidance and mentorship.

He noted that this imbalance is contributing to rising dropout rates among boys, substance abuse, and a growing drift into low-income informal work such as bodaboda riding and casual labour.

He observed that some affected young men end up idle or dependent on informal survival arrangements, not due to laziness, but because of limited mentorship, structure, and access to opportunities that can guide them toward meaningful careers.

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Omwenga warned that the consequences of neglecting boys extend beyond individual households and pose a broader threat to Kisii County’s socio-economic development. He said the decline in skilled male participation in education and training could weaken key sectors including healthcare, construction, and agriculture.

He further noted that rising idleness and frustration among uneducated youth contribute to increased cases of drug and alcohol abuse, crime, and the breakdown of family structures, ultimately perpetuating cycles of poverty.

To address the challenge, Omwenga called for a balanced approach that gives equal attention to both boys and girls. He emphasized the need for stronger mentorship programmes, early career guidance, and the involvement of male role models in schools and communities.

He also highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET), noting that not all learners will pursue university education. He said practical skills in fields such as mechanics, electrical work, carpentry, and ICT can provide sustainable and dignified employment opportunities.

The principal further urged parents to support nearby schools and avoid sending children far away, arguing that proximity enhances parental involvement in discipline, academic monitoring, and character development during formative years.

He called on schools, churches, and community organisations to collaborate in establishing mentorship camps and structured after-school programmes to keep learners engaged and away from negative influences.

Omwenga concluded by stressing that safeguarding the girl child should not come at the expense of the boy child, noting that both are essential to the county’s future.

He said deliberate investment in education, discipline, and mentorship will determine whether Kisii produces the professionals it needs or faces the burden of a neglected generation.

By Enock Okong’o