The death of primary school pupils in Endarasha in Nyeri county has opened a debate on the safety of the learners amidst the guiding framework that was issued by the government.
The death of unknown number of pupils at Hillside Endarasha Academy now under investigation by police on orders by President William Ruto is proof that the safety precautions that were issued were not implemented following claims that the dormitories where the victims were sleeping had been locked from outside at the time of the incident.
The dormitory in question accommodated 156 boys where 17 were burnt beyond recognition with 14 others hospitalised in various health facilities in Nyeri and Othaya.
By the time of going to the press, the investigating agencies were combing the ill-fated dormitory looking for a clue on what could have caused the fire.
According to details from the Ministry of Education, the ill-fated school has a capacity of 824 students, including 402 boys and 422 girls.
The Ministry of Education is working with the Ministry of Interior, National Administration, and the Ministry of Health to manage the situation and ensure that injured students receive the best medical care,” Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang said in a statement.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said there was a need for patience as investigations teams get into the matter.
The government, he said, will assist the parents in all ways possible to help them in this difficult time.
“ There are professionals from various fields working on the matter,” said the DP adding that once investigations are concluded the report will be made public.
The government, he said was seeking for the neighbours and the community who gave the children refuge to share the information with the Kenya Red Cross.
“ Also parents who came for their children should get in contact with the Kenya Red Cross to account for the children,” said the DP.
