Narok leaders have called for stronger parental involvement, improved school safety measures, and closer collaboration among education stakeholders, following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Senior School in Nakuru County that claimed the lives of 16 students on May 28.
Speaking during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held at Enoosaen Senior School, Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia urged parents to build stronger relationships with their children to create an environment where young people can openly discuss the challenges they face and receive appropriate guidance.
Lotiatia emphasized that nurturing disciplined and responsible children should be a shared responsibility among parents, teachers, religious leaders, and the wider community.
He noted that the Utumishi Girls tragedy serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in guiding and supervising young people.
“We must be closer to our children so that they can freely share the life challenges they go through. This will help us provide the right guidance and support. Let us work together to raise disciplined children so that we do not witness extreme cases of indiscipline that result in loss of life,” he said.
The County Commissioner described the incident as unfortunate and called on all education stakeholders to prioritize the safety and welfare of learners.
He stressed the importance of instilling discipline in children while ensuring they remain under proper supervision both at home and in school.
Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu echoed the commissioner’s sentiments, urging all education stakeholders to pay close attention to concerns raised by learners and respond promptly before situations escalate.
“All education stakeholders should be keen on listening to the concerns raised by the children. Whenever an issue that raises concern emerges, prompt action should be taken before it gets out of hand,” said the governor.
Ntutu also appealed to religious leaders to continue providing spiritual guidance and support to young people, noting that moral mentorship plays a critical role in shaping responsible citizens.
“To our clergy, continue remembering our children in prayer so that they do not engage in acts that lead to loss of life and suffering,” he added.
The governor, in line with this year’s Madaraka Day theme “Education, skills, and the future,” underscored the importance of quality education and technical skills development in empowering young people and driving sustainable socio-economic growth.
He said his administration remains committed to investing in education to prepare learners for opportunities in an increasingly competitive and dynamic world.
Additionally, the Tourism PS, John Ololtuaa, while recalling the Utumishi Academy incident, called on the Ministry of Education, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to take decisive action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“The Ministry of Education, security teams, and all stakeholders must take appropriate action to ensure that such unfortunate incidents become a thing of the past,” he said.
The leaders unanimously called for enhanced cooperation among parents, schools, government institutions, and religious organizations to safeguard learners from vices that endanger their lives and create a safe and supportive environment for their growth, education, and well-being.
The Madaraka Day celebrations brought together government officials, leaders, and residents from across the county to commemorate Kenya’s progress since independence while reflecting on key issues affecting the country’s youth and education sector.
The event also served as a platform for leaders to reaffirm their commitment to continue serving the public.
By Emily Kadzo and Duncan Kamau
