By James Mutua
The Government has called for a candid national conversation on discipline, morality, and student welfare following recent incidents of unrest in schools across the country.
Speaking to the press during the weekly media address in Nairobi on Monday, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said Kenya is facing growing challenges affecting learners and called on parents, schools, communities, and other stakeholders to work together in addressing them.
Dr. Mwaura emphasized the importance of discipline in shaping responsible citizens, noting that parents have a critical role in instilling values, accountability, and respect among young people.
“We have to have an honest conversation about discipline in schools. We must address issues affecting our young people and confront the challenges facing our nation with openness and responsibility,” he said.
The Government Spokesperson stressed that while many parents work hard to provide for their families, they must also prioritize guiding their children through firm values and clear boundaries.
He noted that schools and social media cannot replace the foundational role of parents in raising disciplined and responsible children.
Dr. Mwaura further called for open discussions on morality, responsible citizenship, and respect for human dignity, saying society must collectively address incidents involving violence, conflict, intolerance, and loss of life among young people.
The Government also acknowledged public concern over recent cases of school unrest and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, supportive, and conducive learning environments for all learners.
According to Dr. Mwaura, the incidents underscore the need to strengthen mental health support systems, improve learning conditions, enhance student engagement, and address emerging challenges affecting learners.
To tackle these concerns, the Government is intensifying counselling services, teacher capacity-building programmes, learner support initiatives, and school safety measures across the country.
He added that ongoing education reforms aimed at promoting holistic learning, skills development, and youth empowerment remain central to the Government’s strategy.
As part of efforts to strengthen oversight within the education sector, the number of Quality Assurance Officers has been increased from 600 to 1,000 nationwide. The officers will be tasked with monitoring educational standards and supporting targeted interventions in schools.
The Government urged families, communities, religious institutions, educators, and other stakeholders to join hands in nurturing respect, resilience, accountability, and respect for human life among young people.
Dr. Mwaura said a collective commitment to these values would help build a safer, stronger, and more cohesive society while safeguarding the welfare and future of Kenya’s learners.
