The Ministry of Education has dismissed calls for the early closure of schools despite a recent rise in unrest reported in several learning institutions across the country.
Speaking during the Speech and Prize Giving Day at Kenya High School on Thursday, June 4, Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the government would not interrupt the academic calendar because most schools continue to operate normally.
Bitok acknowledged that a number of institutions have experienced disturbances in recent days but maintained that the situation remains manageable.
According to the PS, the ministry is working closely with school administrations, parents, and other stakeholders to restore calm and strengthen safety measures in affected schools.
He explained that ongoing interventions include increased dialogue with students and inspections aimed at reviewing security standards in boarding institutions.
The ministry believes these measures will help stabilize learning environments without forcing a nationwide shutdown.
The government’s position comes as concern grows over a fresh wave of student unrest that has disrupted learning in different parts of the country. Several schools have already suspended classes temporarily after incidents ranging from protests to dormitory fires.
Schools resumed for the second term on April 27 and are expected to remain open until July 31. Learners are also preparing for the midterm break scheduled for June 24 to June 28 before proceeding to the August holiday later in the year.
Education officials are under pressure to contain the unrest as candidates prepare for national examinations set for the final term.
The Kenya Primary School Education Assessment and other national assessments are expected to begin in late October, while the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations will run from November 2 to November 20.
Among the schools recently affected is Alliance High School where a fire broke out in a mattress store, prompting the administration to send students home as a precautionary measure. School management later confirmed that all learners were safe.
Nakuru Girls High School was also closed indefinitely after unrest within the institution, with parents asked to collect students. Similar action was taken at Loreto High School Limuru following overnight disturbances.
Other institutions affected in recent days include Moi Forces Academy Lanet, Naivasha Girls High School, Saseta Girls Secondary School, and Lenana School.
The unrest follows the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that left 16 students dead and dozens injured.
Investigations into the incident are still ongoing, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage and questioning several students believed to have been involved.
Education stakeholders now fear that continued disruptions could interfere with syllabus coverage and examination preparations if stability is not restored soon across affected schools.