Over 100 angry parents stormed Oginga Odinga Tamu Secondary School in Muhoroni Sub-county, Kisumu, to protest the school’s poor performance in 2024 KCSE exams.
Mismanagement and Inappropriate Conduct
The parents, armed with twigs and chanting slogans, demanded the Principal, her deputy and the Board of Management be fired.
The parents accused some teachers of having affairs with students which they claimed was the reason for the poor performance. One parent, Maureen Atieno, said: “For the last 7 years students have been failing exams. Imagine it’s now 15 years without any good results. This is our community school and we want it to grow.”
Lack of Transparency
Adding to the list of grievances, some parents claimed the school administration refused to paste the KCSE results. Millicent Atieno, a grandparent, said she was beaten by police officers at the school gate while trying to access the compound:
“They’ve not posted the results on the notice board. I came to see my grandchild’s performance but instead I was whipped by police officers for no reason.”
Education Officials Ask for Peace
In response to the situation, Caroline Ogutu, Muhoroni Sub-county Education Quality Assurance Officer, asked parents to remain calm while their concerns are addressed. She warned against destruction of property and threats to students and staff.
“We ask parents to remain calm while we address their concerns. Destruction of property and threats to lives will not be tolerated,” Ogutu said, commending the quick response from security.
Local Authorities and Leaders Intervene
Muhoroni Deputy County Commissioner Stephen Emojong Odeke echoed Ogutu’s sentiments, asking parents to channel their anger through formal channels.
“This morning we were informed of plans to demonstrate at the school due to dissatisfaction with KCSE results. We met with the Ministry of Education and assured parents that their concerns will be addressed. We ask them to support school programs.”
The parents also asked area MP James Onyango Koyoo to intervene, saying the school administration needs to be changed for the sake of their children.
Way Forward is Unclear
The school’s Principal, Susan Akinyi, refused to comment, saying it was a chaotic day. Parents have threatened to take further action if their demands for leadership change and transparency in results are not met.
This is not the first time communities are expressing frustrations over education and management of local schools. Now authorities have to address the concerns while maintaining peace and stability.