Uproar Over Viral Photo of 3 Pupils Tied to a Tree

An undated image showing children tied to a tree.
An undated image showing children tied to a tree.
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A photo of three children tied to a tree in Thiru Primary School, Laikipia West, went viral the better part of Wednesday, September 1.

The photo elicited emotions of anger from a section of Kenyans who argued that it was wrong for teachers to use such methods while disciplining students.

The Ministry of Education has now intervened and sent a team to look into the matter alongside officials from the Ministry of Interior. 

An undated image showing children tied to a tree.
An undated image showing children tied to a tree.
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Security officials including Nyahururu sub-county deputy county commissioner Moses Muroki and education officials from the Teacher Service Commission (TSC) visited the school on Wednesday, August 30, and interrogated the teachers in a bid to get to the bottom of the matter.

Officials from the Director of Criminal Investigation and Children Protection Unit were also present.

The development came even as debate ensued on social media on the pros and cons of such physical punishment on children. 

"There are better ways of correcting behaviour and this is definitely not one of them. Those kids can't blow their noses, take care of an itchy spot on their skin, and how do they answer a call of nature tied like this?" Simon Ndung'u posed.

"You want kids to be talked to by word of mouth only? Continue raring snakes they'll bite you hard once of age," Robert Ogilo weighed in.

"Modern day slavery in the name of "discipline". This is inhumane from the same teachers who  should be emulated by the kids. Sad," another stated.

Experts have previously warned that corporal punishment creates resentment and damage between a student and a teacher.

Teachers were advised to consider the pros and cons and know what to consider before using such punishments.

Following an increase in indiscipline cases in schools, Education CS George Magoha reintroduced caning back in January 2021.

The CS stated that the punishment could help reduce criminal activities in schools.

"Learners will not commit crimes and walk scot-free. We shall ensure that these situations are neutralised before they escalate. They must be caned and we shall authorise teachers to punish them," Magoha stated.

Education CS George Magoha during the release of 2021/2022 university and colleges placement results on August 17, 2021.
Education CS George Magoha during the release of 2021/2022 university and colleges placement results on August 17, 2021.
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