The Ministry of Education in collaboration with its Interior counterpart is working on strategic plans of improving
security services in learning institutions to prevent unrest and possible arson attacks in Nyanza region
The Nyanza Regional Education Director (RED), Richard Chepkawai said the move will ensure that there is enough security in public schools to assist in preventing any possible plans of arsons and unrest, especially at this time when candidates prepare for their national exam.
Chepkawai further called on Principals of secondary schools in Homa-Bay County without CCTV gadgets to install them in the hot spot areas such as dormitories to help curb insecurity in schools.
The RED said this on Wednesday while addressing stakeholders at Kabunde CDF Social hall in Homa-Bay sub-county where he called on the schools management to increase the number of security guards besides intensifying night patrols in hot spot areas.
At the same time, Chepkawai appealed to principals to avoid over delegating duties but instead have an open channel of communication to help in monitoring the characteristics of the students at night.
He stressed that security is not a one man thing but a social responsibility, thus needs a collaborative effort.
The RED further challenged teachers to ensure the students are registered in National Educational Management
Information System (NEMIS) platform because the capitation is pegged on the NEMIS, adding that if they are situated in areas with poor network they can relocate to places with good network to ensure the students are registered.
On his part, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Chairman, Patrick Were urged the head teachers to engage all stakeholders in decision making adding that by involving every individual national security is also observed.
Meanwhile, the County Police Commander (CPC), Esther Seroney said that security is a collective responsibility and teachers should ensure they provide proper lighting, intact water and also assess whatever is sold in canteens.
Others who graced the occasion, included area County Commissioner (CC), Irungu Macharia and DCI boss, Daniel Wachira among other heads.
By Davis Langat/Ann Onyango
