Ministry shuts school after principal was found cohabiting with student

By Antony Gitonga

Naivasha, Kenya: The Ministry of Education has closed a secondary school in Naivasha a day after the principal was allegedly found cohabiting with one of his students.

The ministry said students from Rev Githirwa AIC School would stay home for a week as education officials investigate the matter. The principal, who has since gone into hiding, escaped through the window of his house after irate residents confronted him. According to Naivasha sub-county education officer Mbugua Kabaki, the ministry is conducting thorough investigations into other vices reported at the school.

He said officers had visited the school and spoken to the 15-year-old girl who was rescued from the principal’s house.

According to him, the minor claimed she was married to the senior teacher and her parents were aware of their affair.

Innocent students

“The teenager openly admitted living with her principal for close to a year, but we shall make sure that the suspect faces the law,” he said.

Kabaki admitted sexual abuse was rife in the school. 

“We have held meetings with the school management after several reports were made but no action was taken,” he said.

The senior education officer noted that the ministry was ready to take stern action against any teacher found abusing students.

 “We have contemplated closing down the school but our fear is that many innocent students and parents will suffer,” he said.

Naivasha OCPD Charles Kortok said they were closing in on the head teacher and he would face various charges when arrested.