By Mumo Judah
June 8, 2026
The Government has expressed concern over the growing wave of school strikes, arson incidents and destruction of property in learning institutions, warning that the trend points to deeper societal challenges that require collective action beyond the education sector.
Speaking during a national press briefing, Government Spokesman Dr. Isaac Mwaura said the recent cases of unrest witnessed in schools across the country reflect broader social pressures affecting young people and should not be viewed solely as disciplinary problems within institutions.
Dr. Mwaura noted that issues such as negative peer influence, weakening social structures and exposure to harmful online content were contributing to the disturbing trend, adding that the country must urgently address the root causes affecting learners.
“The recent incidents in our schools point to wider societal challenges that require all of us to act together. Parents, teachers, religious leaders and communities must work collectively to restore values of integrity, patriotism and discipline among our children,” he said.
He called for a national conversation involving families, schools, faith-based organizations and community mentors to strengthen moral guidance and provide young people with positive support systems.
The concerns come amid a surge in school unrest reported in several parts of the country during the second term, with a number of institutions experiencing strikes, property destruction and attempted arson attacks.
According to Dr. Mwaura, the matter has attracted the attention of the National Security Advisory Committee (NSAC), which convened an emergency meeting to assess the growing crisis and recommend interventions aimed at restoring stability in schools.
The latest developments follow a series of tragic incidents that have heightened concerns over student safety. Among them was the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left several others injured.
The government has since pledged to support affected families by meeting funeral expenses and providing compensation amounting to KSh200,000 to each bereaved family.
Education stakeholders have increasingly raised concerns over mental health challenges, academic pressure, substance abuse and inadequate counseling services in schools, with experts calling for stronger guidance and psychosocial support systems.
Recent cases of unrest have also been reported in several schools, including protests linked to shortages of basic amenities and tensions over academic and administrative issues, prompting authorities to intensify monitoring and safety measures.
The government said efforts are underway to strengthen collaboration among parents, teachers and school administrators as part of broader measures aimed at addressing the underlying causes of student unrest and safeguarding learning institutions across the country.
