The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Acting Secretary-General, Catherine Omanyo, has advocated for greater investment in day schools and the gradual phase-out of boarding facilities in learning institutions.
The Busia County Woman Representative argued that if parents were able to strike a better balance between their professional and family responsibilities, most children would attend day schools rather than boarding institutions.
“The children I met in Kenyatta Hospital could be my daughters because some of us who are very busy are taking children to boarding schools, not because we like it. If we were able to juggle work and take care of the children, we would be with our children; they would even be in day schools,” said Omanyo.
She also urged parents to instil discipline in their children, emphasizing that character development starts at home.
Remarks come amid school unrest
The comments come against the backdrop of increasing cases of arson attacks that have plagued boarding schools across the country.
The growing tension has resulted in several institutions suspending learning and sending students home as a precautionary measure.
In response to the rising cases of arson and student unrest, senior officials from the Ministry of Education convened a high-level meeting on Tuesday, June 9, to deliberate on urgent interventions aimed at addressing the growing crisis.
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The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening security measures, enhancing student welfare, and improving surveillance within learning institutions.
By Frank Mugwe
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