CS Ogamba declares tough sanctions against unruly students amid school unrests
His statement follows a surge of unrest that has swept through several schools, forcing closures and causing property losses worth millions of shillings.
The government has announced tough disciplinary measures for students involved in serious misconduct, including barring candidates from sitting their national exams within their schools.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said learners found guilty of offences such as arson, theft, or destruction of property will be transferred to special centres to sit their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.
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He noted that both students and parents will be required to take part in disciplinary hearings to ensure accountability.
“School rules must be adhered to. Parents and students must participate in disciplinary hearings, and agreements must be reached. Education cannot thrive in an environment of lawlessness,” Ogamba said
His statement follows a surge of unrest that has swept through several schools, forcing closures and causing property losses worth millions of shillings.
The CS stressed that students responsible for criminal acts will not be allowed to continue learning in their schools as though nothing happened.
“If they are candidates, they will sit their exams from alternative centres. If they are in Form Two or Form Three, they will be required to study from home,” he said.
The CS explained that disciplinary procedures must be followed before any expulsion takes place.
“You can expel a student, but only after disciplinary proceedings. Once it is determined that a learner has committed an offence, a disciplinary committee must hear the case and make a decision. If the committee concludes the student deserves expulsion, then that is what will happen,” he said.
Ogamba also disclosed that several students suspected of burning dormitories and stealing have been arrested and are in police custody.
“It is a crime. There has to be discipline. You cannot allow a learner to burn a school because he or she has a right to education. Let the chips fall where they may,” he stated.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok reinforced the warning, saying clear instructions have been issued to local education officials to remain alert.
“We have given firm instructions to county and sub-county directors of education to remain vigilant. If they suspect a school is at risk of unrest, they must intervene quickly by convening meetings with teachers and students to prevent destruction of property,” he said.
The PS called on parents, religious leaders, and teachers to play an active role in preventing further disturbances.
“This is a delicate term, and we do not want disruptions. While some disturbances may be linked to stress, all stakeholders must remain watchful,” he added.
Parents have been forced to shoulder the cost of repairing damaged infrastructure, further straining family finances.
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