The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Narok Branch has scaled up calls for the phasing out of boarding schools as a solution to the spates of violence by students.
Branch Chair Newton Koech says the move will help curb cases of fires and unrest among students, which are on the rise during third term.
Speaking in the area, he said some fires reported in the country could have been avoided had the government taken seriously an advisory from the union.
“The government should expedite the phasing out of boarding schools. Some fire incidents reported in schools could be averted had the government considered an earlier advisory from the union,” he noted.
According to him, a survey conducted by the union established that the safety of children is assured when they are home unlike when they are in school.
YOU MAY ALSO READ:
KNUT wants KDF choppers for ferrying teachers in and out of Boni Forest returned
Koech blamed depression among students for the rising cases of unrest, arguing that being with their parents will help them relieve the depression.
“Depression among students is the major cause of unrest in schools. A survey carried out recently indicated that children are safer when they are with their parents than being in school. Being with parents also helps learners relieve stress,” said Koech.
The union further rooted for the introduction of the feeding programme in all schools, adding that education, being an equalizer, should easily be accessible to all children irrespective of their backgrounds.
Meanwhile, Keiyo North MP Adams Kipsanai has wondered why cases of unrest are high during the third term, demanding investigations into the matter.
“Cases of fires are usually high during third term. This is so worrying given that such incidences affect preparations for exams. To get to the root cause of such acts, thorough investigations need to be carried out and elaborate preventive measures put in place,” said Kipsanai.
By Kimutai Lang’at
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
