A South-Rift professional has strongly condemned the ongoing wave of student unrest across secondary schools in Bomet and Kericho Counties, warning that the disruptions threaten to derail the education and future of thousands of young people in the region.
While issuing a press statement on Sunday, Dr. Michael Bongei outlined concerns over the strikes, destruction of property, and boycotts of classes that have hit leading schools.
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So far, schools affected by unrest are Koiwa Boys, Kabungut Boys, Kamungei High, Chebonei Girls, Boito Boys, Litein Boys, Kiptewit Secondary, AIC Litein Girls, Tengecha Boys and the latest Longisa Boys High School.
“Education remains the single most powerful tool for lifting our communities out of poverty and creating a secure future for our youth. We as the community leaders cannot stand silent while the hard-won gains of our education sector are eroded by acts of unrest.” said Dr Bongei.
The elite pointed to underlying issues fueling unrest, including exam pressure, drug and substance abuse, gaps in guidance and counseling, and poor communication between students and school management.
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“Recognizing these root causes does not excuse the unrest. But it does show the urgent need for preventive interventions rather than treating each strike as an isolated incident.” He said.
Dr Bongei said that there is urgent need establish rapid response and mediation teams with education officers, psychologists, security personnel and community elders with the learners in reform plans.
“We need strengthened guidance and counseling in every secondary school and institutionalized student dialogue forums to resolve grievances before they escalate,” said the elite.
He added that school administrators need to enhanced transparency and accountability in school management.
“We also need deepen parental and community involvement in shaping school discipline and values and this will maintain zero tolerance for destruction of property while encouraging dialogue,” he said.
The professional urged students to embrace non-violent ways of raising grievances and called on parents to take a more active role in their children’s lives.
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“I am appealing to our youth, protect your schools, respect your teachers, and safeguard your future. And to parents, engage closely with teachers, monitor behavior and support your children in discipline and personal growth.” Said Dr Bongei
Dr. Bongei called on the community professionals to team up and provide mentorship, leadership training, and psychosocial support to affected schools.
“This crisis can be turned into an opportunity to strengthen our education system, foster discipline and empower our youth,” he added.
The wave of unrest has alarmed education officials ahead of national examinations, with stakeholders worried about its long-term impact on academic performance in the affected schools.
By Our reporter
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