The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has called on learners across the country to resolve grievances through dialogue and established communication channels instead of engaging in unrest that disrupts learning.
Speaking in Kisumu, KNUT Deputy Secretary General Hesbon Otieno expressed concern over the increasing number of student protests reported in schools, saying the trend is undermining education and leading to the destruction of valuable infrastructure.
According to Otieno, many of the incidents are being fueled by negative peer influence, resulting in behavior that affects both students and teachers.
Students Urged to Use Leadership Structures
Otieno encouraged learners to take advantage of student leadership bodies and school management structures whenever concerns arise, noting that dialogue remains the most effective way to address challenges.
He emphasized that maintaining peace in schools is essential to ensuring the academic calendar remains on track and that candidates and other learners complete the school year without unnecessary interruptions.
“The school calendar must continue uninterrupted. Students should use the leadership structures available in their schools to air grievances and engage administrators constructively,” he said.
Government Praises Positive School Communication Models
Children Services Principal Secretary Carren Angeng’o echoed the union’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of strong communication between students and teachers.
She commended schools that have embraced open engagement and effective disciplinary frameworks, saying such approaches help create a supportive learning environment.
Angeng’o urged other institutions to adopt similar systems that promote trust, communication, and mutual respect among members of the school community.
“We have seen examples where schools have established effective channels of communication between students and teachers. Such models create safe and conducive environments for learning,” she said.
Focus on Safe Learning Environments
The two leaders spoke during a church service at Nyakach Girls High School in Kisumu County, where they also engaged students on issues affecting education and student welfare.
Their remarks come at a time when several schools across the country have reported incidents of unrest, prompting renewed calls for stronger dialogue mechanisms and enhanced student engagement to safeguard learning and school property.
