Yatta MP Francis Mwangangi has raised concerns over rising cases of students dropping out of school in favour of sand harvesting jobs.
The MP says that school children are being lured by some sand harvesting companies to drop their studies and work in sand mines.
Speaking at Yatta primary school on Saturday, the MP asked the government to take action against sand harvesters employing minors.
“The number of students dropping out of school to join sand harvesting is alarming and the government needs to act,” said the MP.
He observed child labour is prohibited by law adding that perpetrators should be arrested and prosecuted.
Mr Mwangangi observed that some of the sand harvesting companies are operating without licenses.
He warned that education standards in the constituency will drop if appropriate action is not taken immediately.
The MP urged relevant government agencies to take action before it’s too late.
He also asked the government to crack whip on sand harvesters operating illegally.
Meanwhile, the MP has urged the government to improve infrastructure in primary and secondary schools in the area.
He observes that learning facilities in some schools are in deplorable condition noting that they contribute to low performance in national examinations.