Students’ Protest Forces Closure of Kericho Tea High School: Principal Reports Disturbance
Kericho Tea High School faces an indefinite closure in the aftermath of a student strike that unfolded on Monday, January 29. The school’s principal, David Kipsang, reported that the disturbance commenced at 9:30 am, marked by students hurling stones at windows and other property.
In response to the escalating situation, local authorities intervened to quell the riot, and despite the severity of the incident, no arrests were made.
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Both the police and education stakeholders advised the principal to temporarily shut down the school. In compliance, the school promptly initiated an assessment to gauge the extent of the damage caused.
Principal David Kipsang revealed, “They (students) insisted on going home. Consequently, we have released Form Twos, Threes, and Fours until the board decides when and how they will return.” Notably, the Form One students were retained to continue their studies.
Sources familiar with the protest indicate that the students were expressing dissatisfaction with corporal punishment, inadequate diet, and alleged discrimination in extracurricular activities.
Simultaneously, the school administration launched investigations into the unrest and plans to issue a preliminary report in the coming days, outlining the primary causes of the students’ discontent.
Kipsang emphasized, “Investigations are ongoing, and our quality assurance and standard team will provide a comprehensive report.”
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Upon their return, students are expected to contribute to the investigations. Teachers intend to encourage them to share the issues affecting them.
On January 19, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, overseeing the Elimu Scholarship drive at the Bomas of Kenya, issued a stern warning to parents and students regarding property destruction during school protests.
Expressing concern over the recent surge in strikes prompted by poor results, Machogu emphasized adopting careful and consolidative means to avoid depriving innocent children of their right to education.
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Students’ Protest Forces Closure of Kericho Tea High School: Principal Reports Disturbance