Kisii University has issued a new directive prohibiting students from bringing children into classrooms or lecture halls, citing safety risks and disruptions to the learning environment.
The directive was announced by the Dean of Students, Dr Gladys Osoro, through an internal memo dated December 3, which highlights growing concerns after reports that some parent-students have been carrying children across various university spaces, including lecture halls.
According to Dr Osoro, the presence of young children on campus—particularly in academic spaces—poses significant risks.
“It is evident that parent-students are carrying their children all over the university premises, including classrooms. It is of great concern because of the safety, health and general well-being of such children, as well as the kind of disruption caused in a classroom set-up,” the memo reads.
While acknowledging that childcare challenges may arise for some students, the dean stressed the importance of maintaining a professional and effective learning environment. She noted that students need to be entirely focused during lectures, a goal that becomes difficult when children are present in class.
“For the benefit of all students, and to maintain a productive learning environment, please do not bring children with you to class. The classroom is a professional learning space where it is not appropriate to have children present,”Dr Osoro said.
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In addition to the classroom restriction, the Dean has instructed university security personnel to deny entry to any student attempting to access the institution with a child during weekdays
. The only exception allowed is when a child requires urgent medical attention at the university’s medical department.
The tightening of campus regulations comes as institutions across the country continue grappling with how best to support parent-students while safeguarding academic standards.
Kisii University’s leadership maintains that the new directive is necessary to protect the interests of all learners and ensure minimal disruption during teaching and learning activities.
It remains unclear whether the university will roll out alternative support mechanisms for parent-students. Still, officials say the current priority is to restore order and ensure the safety of minors within the university environment.
By Mosoti Mogambi
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