State unveils new measures to boost security in schools

By Augustine Oduor

Nairobi, Kenya: The Ministry of Education has introduced a raft of new measures aimed at enhancing security in schools and averting radicalisation of learners.

The management of all primary and secondary schools have been instructed to take note of any suspicious activities that would amount to radicalisation of children in their schools.

The directives are contained in a circular from the ministry that reveals that various stakeholders have expressed fears that there could be increased radicalisation of youths in education institutions, especially in primary and secondary schools.

The circular, dated March 4, 2014 and signed by acting Education secretary Kiragu Magochi, has been sent to all County Directors of education and District Education Officers.

It has also been copied to education Cabinet Secretary Jacob Kaimenyi, PS Bellio Kipsang, Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Secretary Gabriel Lengoiboni and the National Education Board chairperson Erustus Kiugu.

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“In view of the above, principals and head teachers through boards of management and whole school community should be alert to any activities in the schools that could contribute to radicalisation and eventually ruin the future of children,” reads the circular.

It adds: “It must be noted that radicalisation poses a security threat to the country.”

The schools have been instructed to “strengthen their guidance and counseling departments to prepare students for challenges in life”.

Student transfers

The ministry also directs that records of all children in primary and secondary schools seeking transfers to other schools be examined.

“In case of transfers, head teachers and principals must obtain a written report from the principal or heads of schools the pupils are transferring from giving reasons for the transfer,” reads the directive.

The ministry also wants all resource persons carefully vetted and reports about them made to the relevant officers of the ministry, especially on the content of their presentations.

This means that chief guests, motivational speakers and any other persons invited to speak to learners in schools will be vetted and their presentation shared with the ministry.

In addition, all open days and visiting days must be supervised and a register of invited and visiting guests kept in school. “Schools must regularly hold barazas with students to guide them on national values,” said Magochi.

The circular adds: “School management should carry their own internal investigations to establish whether radicalization could be taking place in their institutions,” reads the circular.