Outrage at Songoliet Secondary School: Parents Demand Justice for Injured Students
Parents of Songoliet Secondary School in Kapseret, Uasin Gishu County, are demanding justice after several students sustained injuries allegedly inflicted by teachers. Reports indicate that a Swahili teacher forced students to kneel on concrete stones as punishment for failing to answer questions correctly.
Dancan Sanchez Tum, a concerned parent, shared, “The students were treated and discharged at Chemenei Health Centre. We are calling for the principal’s transfer due to his rude behavior and disregard for our complaints.”
One student recounted the incident, stating, “The teacher asked us questions, and when we couldn’t answer, he made us kneel on balast. Now, my knees are injured, and I can barely walk. We want justice.”
Following the incident, parents and students filed statements at Cheptiret police post, where they received an official report. They are urging the Ministry of Education to intervene and take action against the teacher involved.
Kimutai Kirui of the Centre Against Torture condemned the incident, emphasizing that corporal punishment is illegal in schools. “This is a clear violation of the law. We demand immediate action against the teacher and the principal’s transfer,” he stated.
Despite the escalating tension, Paul Maritim, the principal, declined to comment when approached by media representatives. Meanwhile, John Thiringi, the Uasin Gishu County Director of Education, confirmed that investigations are underway. “We are looking into the matter and will take stern actions based on our findings,” Thiringi assured.
As the community awaits further developments, parents and students remain resolute in their quest for accountability and justice.