MoE orders immediate reinstatement of Lwak girls’ student sent home over hijab

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has ordered for the immediate readmission of a Grade 10 student who was sent home from St. Mary’s Lwak Girls’ High School in Siaya County after a dispute over her wearing of a hijab.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Prof Julius Bitok issued the directive, emphasizing that no learner should be denied access to education on the basis of religion.

He noted that the constitution guarantees freedom of worship and protection from discrimination, and urged all schools to align their internal policies with national laws.

The incident has sparked debate across the country, with leaders, parents and religious groups weighing in on the matter.

Some argue that faith-based institutions, such as catholic-sponsored schools operate under established traditions and rules that guide student conduct, including dress code and participation in religious activities like daily mass.

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They maintain that students admitted to such institutions are expected to respect and follow those guidelines.

However, others contend that public schools — including those sponsored by religious organizations — serve learners from diverse backgrounds and should accommodate religious expression.

Education stakeholders point out that Kenya’s school placement system sometimes limits transfer options, making dialogue and inclusivity necessary to protect learners’ rights.

The ministry has confirmed that investigations are ongoing and consultations will be held with the school’s management and sponsors to ensure compliance with education policies and constitutional provisions.

The case has once again brought to the fore the delicate balance between preserving a school’s religious identity and upholding individual freedoms, with authorities calling for tolerance and mutual respect to safeguard uninterrupted learning for all students.

By Odoyo Miranda