Education CS Ogamba roots for dialogue to stop arson in Schools

Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba Friday rooted for dialogue among the stakeholders in the education sector as one way to tame strikes and rising cases of arson schools.

Dialogue, he said, would give students an avenue to ventilate issues troubling them instead of resorting to violence that end up causing wanton destruction to property.

“We must create safe spaces for students to express themselves. Some of these vices, though a crime in themselves, could also be cry for help, not just a disciplinary issue,” Ogamba said.

He spoke of the need for a robust collaborative approach involving students, teachers, parents, and school administrators to uncover the root causes of the unrest.

“Dialogue must be at the centre of any sustainable solution. Schools must all ensurewhatever they do must promote both academic excellence and student well-being,” he added

Ogamba’s remarks come in the wake of a spate of school fires in the country which have caused destruction to several dormitories.

He was speaking at Kenyoro Primary, Kitutu Chache North in Kisii where he led the community, teachers and students in planting trees to commemorate Mazingira Day.

The activity is part of the ambitious government plan to increase the tree cover by planting 15 billion seedlings across the country.

The CS was joined by Kitutu Chache North MP Japhet Nyakundi.

The CS further reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of learners and preserving school infrastructure, but noted that heavy-handed responses without understanding the underlying issues could worsen the situation.

In Kisii at least three schools have reported fires.

Ogamba said some tudents have already been arrested and charged with arson.

He however did not cite the number

Speaking about tree planting, the CS called on all Kenyans to actively participate in nationwide tree-planting efforts as part of the government’s broader initiative to combat climate change and promote environmental conservation.

He emphasised the role of educational institutions in driving sustainable practices, urging schools, colleges, and universities to integrate tree planting into their learning activities.

“Tree planting is not just an environmental duty but a patriotic one. I urge every Kenyan, especially our youth and students, to take part in restoring our natural ecosystems,” said Ogamba.

He especially told school alumni to visit their former schools and assist in tree planting.

The CS noted that the Ministry of Education was already workinf closely with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry to ensure that learning institution play the vanguard role in the ongoing national tree-planting campaign.

This call comes in line with President William Ruto’s pledge to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 as part of Kenya’s long-term strategy to address deforestation, drought, and climate-related challenges.