Parents of students at Gatunguru Boys High School, Gatundu North, Kiambu County, stormed the school after the school administration asked each parent to pay Ksh 25,000 to repair the burnt dormitories.
The inferno that occurred on September 7 levelled the school's dormitories to ashes. There were no injuries during that incident.
Students were forced to stay at home for more than two weeks, causing disruptions in learning.
Parents reported that they were informed by the school board of management to clear all the outstanding fees and to top up Ksh25,000 each for reconstructions.
They complained that the price mentioned by the school is unrealistic. They complained that the school was returning all the students to their homes if they did not clear that debt.
“We are already struggling with school fees and other family needs. Adding Ksh25,000 on top is too heavy for us,” one of the parents said.
“Our children are losing valuable time while others are in class. This directive is unfair, especially to the Form Fours who are almost sitting their exams,” another parent added.
Another parent complained that despite clearing school fees for his son, his child is still at home due to a Ksh25,000 debt.
“The government should step in instead of punishing parents who are already burdened by the high cost of living.”
The school defended the amount, stating that the price was reduced from Ksh50,000. The management explained to parents that the amount arrived after the assessment was done by officers from the Department of Public Works.
School Chairperson Board, Peter Macharia, informed the parents that his priority was to make it easy for students with accommodation, as the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations were approaching.
“Our priority is to get the students back to school and provide them with accommodation. The Ksh25,000 contribution was the fairest compromise after consultations,” said Peter Macharia, the Board Chairperson.
