A multi-agency team has been formed in Laikipia County to track down students from nomadic communities to ensure they return to school, even as the county recorded ‘normal’ teenage pregnancy cases.
The Operation Back to School team, led by Industrialization Chief Administrative Secretary, Lawrence Karanja, noted that about 1.5 percent of learners were yet to report to school, with a number having moved to neighbouring Baringo and Samburu Counties.
“There are few and isolated cases reported of those who have dropped out after migrating to other places and we are liaising with local administration in the areas to ensure they report to the schools near their new aboard,” added Karanja.
He noted that a number of the male students were from the Samburu community who were recently initiated and are going through the healing process before they return.
Speaking at G G Kariuki Secondary School in Rumuruti, Karanja refuted claims that a high number of teenagers became pregnant, saying only between one and 1.5 percent of the girls were pregnant, which was normal.
“This is a normal statistic compare to 2017 and 2018, we are encouraging the young mothers to report back noting that the schools will offer them Psychosocial support to enable them settle.
“I am impressed that most schools have recorded above 90 percent with others having new comers who had replaced those who left,” added the CAS.
Laikipia West Deputy county commissioner Hezron Nyamberi noted that a small percentage had also joined various businesses especially boda boda business, following the long break.
“We have a list of the defilers of these children, who among them are their fellow students, and the police are working closely with the families to ensure they are brought to book. Any parents who have condoned this will also be prosecuted,” warned Nyamberi.
By Anne Sabuni
