Learning resumed on Tuesday at Chuka Girls High School after the institution had been closed since January 29 following a series of protests by parents.
The school was closed indefinitely after parents demonstrated at the Tharaka Nithi County Education Offices, accusing Principal Joan Muchina of alleged mistreatment of students, intimidation of parents, and administrative mismanagement. Education authorities ordered the closure pending investigations into the claims.
Prior to resumption under the interim leadership of the Deputy Principal, fresh demonstrations occurred, with parents and students demanding the principal’s removal. The demonstrators, including parents accompanied by their daughters, marched from Chuka town to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) offices, insisting that learning should continue only under new leadership.
The protests were triggered by reports that the principal had been seen within the school compound, prompting some students to temporarily boycott classes.
Addressing the demonstrators, Tharaka Nithi County TSC Director Emmy Kigeti assured parents that learners’ safety and welfare had been prioritised and confirmed that the Deputy Principal had officially taken charge of the school.
“The learners are safe, and arrangements have been made to ensure learning continues smoothly,” Kigeti said, urging parents to allow students to continue with their studies.
Chuka North Deputy County Commissioner Benson Karani described the dispute as largely a mismanagement issue and said authorities were working to restore normalcy at the institution.
“The current directive is that the Deputy Principal is in charge. We want all students to report back to school and resume learning,” Mr Karani said. He added that a meeting involving parents would soon be convened to address outstanding concerns.
Director of Education Mbugua Kabaki reiterated that matters within the Ministry of Education’s mandate had been addressed and assured parents that concerns regarding the Board of Management would be reviewed accordingly.
Despite the resumption of learning under the Deputy Principal’s supervision, parents maintained their demand for the substantive principal’s removal as investigations continue.
By Dickson Mwiti & Christine Ngitori
