A section of retired teachers in Gatundu North have proposed a four-year jail term without the option of a fine for any student found guilty of arson attacks in schools.
The teachers have further proposed that students found liable for burning schools be further charged with attempted murder of their fellow students.
Speaking in Kamwangi town of Wednesday, the retired teachers echoed Education CS Dr Fred Matiang’i’s claims that the unending arson attacks in secondary schools are caused by exam cheating cartels. They, however, differed with his directive that suspected students be barred from re-admission elsewhere noting that the harsh directive could trigger more unrest.
The teachers stated that corporal punishment, guidance and counseling in schools should be re-introduced to strengthen bonds between students, teachers and other stakeholders in an effort to curb continued unrest.
Led by Martha Mwangi, a retired teacher, the teachers said that through counseling, teachers are able to comprehend psychology of students and offer guidance where necessary.
They further challenged parents to instill discipline in their students citing that bringing up a child was a communal responsibility and not teachers’ as many parents had done.
Kiambu County is among the affected counties with Muhoho Boys, Komothai Boys and Komothai Girls secondary schools being affected after arson attacks.
Over a hundred schools countrywide have been affected with St Patrick’s High School which is a national school also joining the fray.