Ministry of Education officials in Western Region have raised concern over the upsurge of school unrest in Bungoma County.
Western Regional Director of Education (RDE) Jared Obiero says this year alone, 32 schools in Bungoma County have gone on the rampage, destroying property worth millions of shillings.
Speaking to KNA in his office today, Obiero said ministry officials have called for a stakeholder meeting starting this Friday in all subcounties, which will culminate in a regional forum to address the issue.
The RDE said the forums will bring together the respective schools’ Boards of Management (BOMs), parent Associations, and Members of Parliament, Members of County Assemblies (MCAs), sponsors and National Government (NGAO) officials, among others.
“We have organised stakeholders’ meetings, starting this Friday in Tongaren Sub County, to help find a lasting solution to this vice,” he added.
Mr. Obiero regretted that at Maliki Boys’ Secondary School, the students destroyed and even carried away school property worth more than 20 million shillings.
Other schools that went on the rampage include Namwela, Kamusinde and Cheptais boys’ secondary schools.
“Schools in Kakamega, Busia and Vihiga counties have, however, remained peaceful and the schools’ calendar is running smoothly in those areas,” he added.
The education official blamed the unrest on political and local community interference.
By George Kaiga
