Hundreds of learners stranded as schools blacklisted over safety protocols

In Ruora Village, Kisii County, 14-year-old Oscar Omari, a Grade 9 learner, remained at home on the first day of school while his peers reported back to class.

"We have been very anxious. Others have gone back to school, but my child is still at home," lamented Gladys Kemunto, a parent affected by the closures.

Oscar echoed his mother’s concerns, expressing his frustration.

"We were told schools would reopen on the 8th, but now I am stuck at home. We are very confused; the government should help us get back to school," he said.

The family is unsure if Oscar’s school will meet the required safety guidelines in time or if they will need to find an alternative school.

One of the affected schools is Kiaboera Primary School in South Mugirango Constituency, Kisii County. The school is racing against time to complete the necessary upgrades before Wednesday, when it is due for reassessment by education officials.

"They never even inspected the school—they just dropped a letter. But we are working hard, and we believe everything will be ready soon," said Joseph Magara, the school’s director.

A teacher at Kiaboera Primary, Shem Omweri, highlighted the school’s efforts to comply with the directive.

"This is a school that performs very well. Within two hours, everything will be in order," he said confidently as construction crews worked on-site.

Despite the outcry, the Ministry of Education has maintained its stance on enforcing 100% compliance with safety regulations, emphasizing that learners' well-being is paramount.

"The safety measures for boarding schools must be adhered to without compromise," said Dr. Belio Kipsang, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education.