Education CS Ogamba Reveals What Is Fueling the Wave of School Chaos Across Kenya

The Ministry of Education has moved to reassure the public over the recent wave of unrest in schools across the country, stating that while the incidents are concerning, they have affected only a small fraction of learning institutions.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the Government is treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves, especially following several incidents that have resulted in loss of life, injuries and destruction of school property.

“We have witnessed a spate of incidents of unrest in our schools in recent weeks. These incidents have largely occurred in boarding senior schools,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

According to the Ministry, the unrest has disrupted learning in a number of schools and led to the destruction of valuable infrastructure. However, the Government maintains that the country's education system remains largely stable.

The Ministry particularly highlighted the devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left several others injured. The Cabinet Secretary described the tragedy as deeply painful and regrettable, noting that investigations had established the fire was an act of arson allegedly orchestrated by some learners.

“We recall with utmost grief and pain the unfortunate fire tragedy that led to the loss of sixteen learners,” he said.

He further revealed that nine suspects have already been arraigned in court and remanded in custody as investigations and legal proceedings continue.

The Government extended its condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries.

While acknowledging that students may have genuine grievances, the Ministry stressed that violence, destruction of property and actions that endanger lives can never be justified.

“Whatever grievances learners may have, there can never be justification for causing death and destroying property. Any grievances must be addressed through the appropriate channels without resorting to unlawful actions or violence,” Ogamba stated.

He warned that all those found responsible for the unrest would face the full force of the law.

The Ministry's preliminary assessment indicates that the situation is not as widespread as some reports may suggest. According to the Cabinet Secretary, less than two percent (2%) of the country's senior schools have been affected by unrest, meaning that more than 98 percent (98%) of schools continue to operate normally.

“Most of the affected institutions are boarding senior schools, while day senior schools have largely remained unaffected,” he said.

The Ministry reported that unrest has so far been recorded in 204 senior schools nationwide. Encouragingly, learners in 59 of those schools have already resumed studies, with more expected to return as normalcy is restored.

Meanwhile, students in Grades 1 to 9 have continued learning without major disruptions.

“Our basic education system is running smoothly, except for the disruptions reported in some boarding senior schools,” the Cabinet Secretary noted.

The Ministry's review has pointed to several factors that may be contributing to the unrest.

Among the issues identified are leadership challenges within institutions, examination-related anxiety, poor school conditions, particularly in boarding sections, alcohol and drug abuse, demanding school routines, peer influence, and copycat behaviour.

The Ministry also noted that some learners have been demanding early closure of schools.

As a result, school principals and administrators have been urged to address emerging concerns before they escalate.

“Heads of institutions are reminded that it is their statutory and moral duty to ensure that challenges are addressed in good time and that the safety and security of learners are guaranteed,” Ogamba said.

The Ministry commended the majority of students across the country for remaining disciplined and focused on their studies despite the recent incidents. It also praised teachers, parents, school heads and other stakeholders for their role in maintaining stability within schools.

The Cabinet Secretary emphasised that addressing school unrest requires a collective effort involving the Government, parents, guardians, educators, policymakers, community leaders and learners themselves.

“This worrying pattern of unrest summons all of us to engage in collective reflection about our children and their future,” he said.

The Ministry called on all stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at instilling discipline, values, and responsible citizenship among learners.

“It is our duty, a sacrosanct one, to nurture our children in the values and virtues that will grow them into law-abiding and responsible citizens. Citizens who will contribute meaningfully to the development, and not the destruction, of our great Republic,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.

The Government has assured the public that it will continue monitoring the situation closely while implementing measures to safeguard learners and ensure uninterrupted education across the country.