Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has linked the growing wave of school strikes and dormitory fires across the country to erosion of national values and deeper societal challenges that require urgent national reflection.
Speaking during the 2026 Kiharu Masomo Bora Students Career Fair held at Mugoiri Mixed Day Secondary School in Kahuro Sub-county, Nyoro said the recurring unrest in learning institutions should not be viewed as isolated incidents but as a signal that Kenya needs to reassess the values being passed on to young people.
The legislator noted that numerous schools, particularly boarding institutions, have in recent years experienced cases of strikes, destruction of property and arson, with the incidents often peaking during the second school term.
According to Nyoro, the situation calls for a broader conversation involving parents, teachers, religious leaders and policymakers on the kind of society Kenya is building for future generations.
He said the country must cultivate a culture of listening, dialogue and mutual understanding, arguing that many people have become more focused on expressing their own views than engaging with others constructively.
“What we are witnessing in our schools is communicating something about the values we hold as a nation. Beyond implementing measures to stop these incidents, we should also take time to reflect on the lessons they are teaching us about our society,” he said.
Nyoro observed that politics has increasingly taken centre stage in both public and private lives, often creating divisions and reducing opportunities for meaningful engagement among citizens.
He stressed the need for a strong national value system anchored on respect, responsibility, discipline and accountability, saying such principles are critical in shaping responsible and productive citizens.
The MP urged all stakeholders in the education sector to work together in mentoring young people and restoring moral values that can help address the growing cases of unrest in schools.
At the same time, Nyoro renewed calls for the immediate confirmation of all 44,000 Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers into permanent and pensionable employment terms.
He praised the teachers for their commitment and service despite working under temporary terms for several years saying they have played a critical role in sustaining learning in schools across the country.
“Education is not an expenditure; it is an investment. A country that values its future must value its teachers,” he underscored.
The Kiharu MP argued that every professional in society, including doctors, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs and leaders, owes their success to teachers, making it necessary for the government to provide job security and dignity to tutors.
He said the prolonged internship arrangement has left thousands of teachers uncertain about their future and called on the government to honour its commitments by offering them permanent employment.
“The future of our children cannot remain on internship,” he stated.
The Kiharu Masomo Bora Students Career Fair brought together learners from various secondary schools across the constituency for career guidance, mentorship and discussions aimed at helping them make informed decisions about their academic and professional future.
by Bernard Munyao and Purity Mugo
