The government says learners found responsible for the destruction of school property will face legal action.
The Ministry of Education has issued a stern warning to students involved in arson and vandalism as cases of unrest continue to affect several secondary schools across Kenya.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said learners found responsible for burning dormitories or destroying school property would be held accountable under the law, regardless of their age.
The remarks come amid growing concern over a series of unrest incidents reported in schools during the second term, some of which have resulted in the destruction of property and disruption of learning.
“Anyone involved in burning school property or endangering the lives of others will be held accountable under the law.We shall come for you and jail you,even if you are a child.”
The government has maintained that criminal acts committed in schools will be investigated and prosecuted through the appropriate legal processes.
Focus on safety after deadly dormitory fire.
The government’s response follows the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left dozens of others injured.
Investigations into the incident have led to the arrest of several students suspected of involvement in the arson attack. Authorities have indicated that enquiries are ongoing as detectives seek to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The incident has reignited debate about student discipline, school safety standards and the mechanisms available for addressing grievances within learning institutions.
According to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, preliminary findings showed the school had failed to fully comply with some safety requirements, including concerns over dormitory congestion and emergency exits.
