The Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has order the indefinite closure of Utumishi Girls Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru county, following a tragic night fire that claimed at least 16 students’ lives.
The incident, which broke out in a dormitory as learners were sleeping, also left several others injured, some in critical condition and receiving treatment in hospital.
The tragedy has left families devastated and the nation in mourning.
Authorities have launched investigations to determine the cause of the fire, with security and education officials working to establish the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Meanwhile, leaders, parents and education stakeholders have called for urgent reinforcement of safety measures in boarding schools across the country to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The closure of the school remains in effect as authorities continue with investigations and assessment of the damage caused.
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Counselling services are expected to be rolled out for affected students, staff and families as the community begins the difficult process of healing and recovery after the heartbreaking incident.
Education officials have urged calm as investigations continue, assuring parents that updates will be provided regularly.
They also emphasized the need for stronger infrastructure, improved emergency response systems, and stricter safety compliance in all boarding institutions nationwide going forward.
By Philip Koech
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