Pressure from parents and teachers for better academic results has been blamed for the increasing cases of unrest among students across the country.
Education expert Professor Benard Bengat said students should be allowed to pursue their individual competencies, noting that success is not limited to classroom performance.
“We must allow learners to discover and develop their unique abilities. Not every child will succeed through academics alone,” said Prof Bengat while speaking in Kericho Town.
He cautioned against apportioning blame to any single party for the wave of school unrest, saying several underlying factors must be considered.
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“No one group should be blamed for the indiscipline in schools. There are many contributing issues that require collective understanding and action,” he stated.
Prof. Bengat criticised some parents for putting undue pressure on their children, making them believe that academic success is the only path to a meaningful life.
He further observed that some students, aware of their parents’ financial struggles, may resort to strikes to justify poor performance.
“Many students know their parents sacrifice a lot to pay fees. Some end up causing chaos in schools as a way of finding an excuse for their academic failures,” he explained.
He warned against the blame game among education stakeholders, urging a joint approach to addressing challenges in learning institutions.
Bengat also advocated for a participatory approach in conflict management within schools and urged teachers to be vigilant and identify warning signs early.
“Teachers must be observant. In most cases, students don’t show open signs before engaging in unrest. Early intervention can prevent destruction and loss,” he advised.
By Kimutai Langat
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