The Ministry of Education has issued a directive to school principals, advising them to allow students who have already arrived at school to remain on campus rather than sending them back home. This decision, communicated by Education Principal Secretary (PS) Belio Kipsang, aims to ensure the safety of students amidst severe weather conditions, particularly heavy rains.
PS Kipsang emphasized the potential risks associated with sending students back home, especially considering the adverse weather conditions and the fact that many students travel to school unaccompanied. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the students’ well-being during this challenging period.
In a circular addressed to all county education directors, with copies sent to Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu and Teachers Service Commission chair Nancy Macharia, PS Kipsang instructed that students who have not yet commenced their journey to school should remain at home until further notice.
This directive follows confusion in some schools where students had already reported or were en route when the rescheduling of school opening dates was announced by CS Machogu. Despite the announcement, some school authorities sent students back home, despite the hazardous road conditions caused by heavy rains.
Parents are understandably concerned about the whereabouts of their children who had already left for school before receiving news of the postponed opening dates. Originally slated to commence on Monday, April 29, schools will now begin the second term on May 6, 2024.
In addition to informing parents about the revised opening dates, PS Kipsang instructed principals and headmasters to ensure proper storage of food supplies within school premises to mitigate potential losses during this period. Enhanced security measures are also advised to protect school property during the postponement.
Education officers nationwide are tasked with conducting thorough assessments of all primary and secondary schools to ascertain their readiness for the rescheduled opening. PS Kipsang assured parents that the ministry will provide timely updates throughout the week, taking into account any damage incurred by schools and the status of roads affected by heavy rains, thus ensuring safety measures are implemented as classes resume.
