Education stakeholders, particularly parents, have been urged to play a more active role in mentoring and guiding learners to help stem the growing wave of school fires and indiscipline cases across the country.
The call comes amid increasing incidents of arson and unrest in learning institutions, raising concerns about the safety of learners and the stability of the education sector.
Speaking at Gakondi Primary School in Imenti South Sub-County, Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi described the rising cases of school fires as alarming, warning that they pose a serious threat to the country’s education system.
Mugambi emphasized the need for a collective approach involving parents, teachers and communities to instill discipline among learners and create safe environments for learning and personal development.
“The rising cases of school fires are worrying. Parents must play their role in mentoring children while schools and communities work together to nurture responsible citizens,” he said.
The PS also cautioned members of the public against vandalizing property or blocking roads during demonstrations, noting that such actions undermine development efforts and result in unnecessary losses.
He urged Kenyans to embrace lawful and peaceful means of expressing grievances, stressing that dialogue and respect for the rule of law are essential for maintaining peace and fostering national development.
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At the same event, Imenti South Deputy County Commissioner Mary Mwangi praised the national government for decentralizing key services to the sub-county level, saying the move has improved access to government services while reducing costs for residents.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Meru County Executive Secretary Morris Njira echoed concerns over the growing cases of unrest and indiscipline in schools.
Njira called on the Ministry of Education to review existing discipline management policies, arguing that teachers have become increasingly constrained in handling errant learners due to fears of legal repercussions and disciplinary action.
“The current environment has made it difficult for teachers to effectively enforce discipline in schools. There is a need to review some policies to empower teachers while safeguarding learners’ rights,” he said.
He further noted that discipline begins at home, urging parents to take greater responsibility in shaping the character and values of their children before they join school.
Meanwhile, Meru County Forest Conservator Willington called on institutions, farmers and community groups to support afforestation initiatives aimed at increasing forest cover and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Leaders attending the event unanimously agreed on the need to strengthen discipline among learners and within institutions as part of broader efforts to accelerate development in Meru County and across the country.
By John Majau
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