The schools in areas affected by recent violence in Angatta Barrikoi, Narok County, have recorded low learner turnout a day after schools officially reopened, raising concerns over the impact of insecurity on education.
A spot-check conducted at several schools revealed that only a few learners reported for classes, with some leaving early as teachers stayed away due to fear.
Learning activities had largely not resumed normally as tension remains high in the area.
This is despite increased security measures, including scaled-up police patrols and the establishment of a General Service Unit (GSU) camp to restore calm.
Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Narok Branch Secretary Willy Korir said learning has not commenced in some schools, noting that Siteti, Aitong and Olaitong areas are currently hosting internally displaced persons (IDPs).
“Learning has not started in these schools because they are hosting IDPs,” Korir said. “Many learners and their parents fled their homes following the violence, making it difficult for children to return to school.”
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Addressing the press, Korir expressed concern that continued insecurity poses a serious threat to education in the region.
“We want police officers to man all schools in the affected areas to guarantee the safety of learners and teachers,” he said. “A lasting solution must also be found because insecurity remains a major threat to education here.”
According to the reports, communal conflicts in the area have so far claimed seven lives, further deepening fear among residents. Parents have also piled pressure on the government to urgently address the root causes of the conflicts to ensure lasting peace and allow children to resume learning without fear.
Residents say unless peace is fully restored, normal school attendance will remain a challenge in Angatta Barrikoi and its surroundings.
By Kimutai Langat
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