Teachers, Parents Want Mid-Term Break Extended Amid Azimio Demonstrations
Teachers and parents in Kenya are concerned about the safety of learners returning to school on Monday following the half-term break, as nationwide demonstrations are scheduled by the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
The chair of the National Parents Association, Silas Obuhatsa, has called on President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga to dialogue and avoid a crisis.
He fears that learners traveling long distances may be caught up in the chaos, and hooligans may take advantage of the situation to harm children.
Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) chairperson, Omboko Milemba, has called for the susumption of learning to be postponed until Wednesday to ensure the security of children, teachers, and workers.
“We’re asking the Ministry of Education to adjust the half-term accordingly. Doing so doesn’t show we support Azimio but it’s about the security of children, teachers and workers,” he said.
However, Kenya National Union of Teachers Secretary-General Collins Oyuu said that changing the reporting date might be viewed as supporting Mr. Odinga.
Mr. Odinga has called for demonstrations nationwide to force the government to lower the cost of living, among other demands.
Parents have also expressed concerns about their children’s safety, with some requesting the school administration allow children to return on Tuesday instead of Monday when things have calmed down.
Evans Kimani said he would delay his children’s reporting until the situation calms down.
It is vital for the two opposing groups to find a peaceful resolution to their issues as learners’ education and safety are at risk.
It is crucial for leaders to engage in dialogue and find a solution that does not endanger the lives of children and disrupt the education system.
Teachers, Parents Want Mid-Term Break Extended Amid Azimio Demonstrations