Parents at Kamuoni Boys High School have staged demonstrations outside the institution, calling for the immediate removal of the school principal and opposing a compulsory Ksh20,000 restoration fee levied on all students.
The school’s leadership and Board of Management implemented the charge to finance restoration efforts following a destructive eight-day student riot that affected the establishment on May 12, resulting in damages estimated at Ksh23 million.
The disturbances resulted in a dormitory set ablaze, furniture destroyed, office windows broken, and the school kitchen along with multiple essential facilities extensively harmed.
In the aftermath of the destruction, the school was indefinitely closed, with all students dismissed as authorities evaluated the complete scope of the damage and planned for resumption of operations.
Nevertheless, parents remain skeptical about the figures, doubting the transparency of the charge and suggesting that total contributions from all students
“We are compelled to pay Ksh20,000 each, but the school has not clearly indicated how these funds will be utilized,” remarked one parent.
Another parent added, “Even if all families provide the complete amount, we are unaware of how the school determined these figures. We believe the procedure lacks openness, and guardians deserve a comprehensive breakdown before being expected to bear such a substantial financial responsibility.”
Numerous frustrated parents assembled at the school entrance, reciting chants and seeking explanations, vowing their children would not return to lessons until officials addressed their issues with candor and honesty.
The Ksh20,000 charge was not the sole concern, as parents also presented an extensive list of other complaints they assert have been neglected by the educational facility for an extended period.
Among the concerns raised were inadequate living accommodations for students, questionable additional fees frequently imposed on pupils, a concerning drop in scholastic achievement, and a significant decline in student conduct.
Many parents indicate that the student demonstrations were an expected result of underlying frustrations that school authorities had consistently failed to recognize or resolve.
They are currently advocating for the principal’s dismissal, asserting that the educational institution requires new administration to restore tranquility, reconstruct confidence with families, and reverse what they characterize as prolonged deterioration.
Makueni County officials have requested composure and discussion, noting the county since academic institutions resumed for the second semester.
“Let us think collectively, let us unite and determine how we can progress without these interruptions. We cannot perpetuate this harmful cycle,” declared one school board member.