No plans for early midterm break over schools' unrest, PS Bitok says

The Ministry of Education has ruled out the possibility of an early second-term midterm break despite a recent wave of unrest in secondary schools across the country.

According to Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, learning remains largely uninterrupted in most schools, with only a small fraction of institutions affected by the disturbances. He said the ministry's data shows that approximately 0.8 percent of schools have experienced unrest, meaning there is no justification for altering the official academic calendar.

"We have no plans for an unscheduled closure of schools. Learning is continuing normally in 99 percent of our schools, while only around 0.8 percent have experienced challenges. Our focus is on addressing issues in the affected institutions while ensuring that all learners continue with their education without disruption," said Bitok.

The PS said the ministry will instead intensify inspections of school facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards while promoting dialogue between teachers, school administrators, and students as a strategy for preventing further unrest.

Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony at The Kenya High School in Nairobi, Bitok emphasized that the second-term midterm break will proceed as scheduled from June 24 to June 28.

He acknowledged that examination-related pressure had emerged as one of the factors contributing to tensions in some schools and urged principals to adopt a more flexible approach when addressing students' concerns.

"We are not saying students should not sit examinations, especially county-based mock exams. However, if learners express anxiety or indicate they are not ready, there is no point in forcing them. It is better to postpone a test than risk having an institution burnt down," he said.

Bitok challenged teachers and school administrators to embrace modern and flexible leadership approaches, noting that today's learners are more informed and increasingly conscious of their rights and freedoms.

He further called on schools to strengthen student leadership structures, guidance and counselling programmes, mentorship initiatives, as well as mental health and psychosocial support services.

"Dialogue must always take precedence over destruction. We encourage learners to use the existing channels of engagement within their schools and work closely with teachers and school management in resolving any concerns," he said.

To support the ongoing nationwide school safety audit, which is expected to be completed within the next ten days, the PS announced that the ministry has recruited and deployed 400 additional quality assurance officers, bringing the total number to 1,000 officers countrywide.

"We want every learner to study in a safe, secure and supportive environment. The ongoing safety audit will help us strengthen preparedness, improve institutional response mechanisms and enhance the welfare of learners across all institutions," Bitok said.