Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has issued a warning to parents and guardians following the drowning tragedy of 5 Kenya Certificate of Primary Examinations (KCPE) students.
In a statement on Sunday, October 29, Machogu asked parents to avoid exposing the students to risky environments and activities during national exams.
Further, the CS asked the affected families and communities to remain patient assuring them that the Ministry of Education was working to ensure the safety of students across the country during the period of national examinations.
“Teachers, parents and guardians are advised to avoid exposing learners to risky activities and environments, especially during the national examinations season.
“I wish to assure everyone that the Government will take all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of candidates across the country during the 2023 national examinations season,” stated Machogu.
Machogu Condoles with Affected Families
Moreover, Machogu sent his condolences to the pupils of Arap Moi Primary School in Uasin Gishu and the families of the five candidates who were meant to begin their examinations on Monday, October 30.
“It is regrettable that we lost the candidates just two days before they could sit their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education that starts tomorrow.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the deceased,” added the CS.
The Education CS also wished the surviving class six student a quick recovery.
Also Read: 5 KCPE Candidates Drown During School Trip
Ministry of Education Working with Kindiki
At the same time, the CS noted that he would be working closely with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to ensure thorough investigations are conducted.
“In the meantime, I am working closely with my counterpart in the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, to ensure thorough and conclusive investigations are conducted into the unfortunate incident.
“As the investigations into the tragedy continue, I wish to appeal for calm and patience from the affected school, families and communities,” he noted.
Also Read: KNEC Issues KCSE/KCPE Dos and Don’ts Days to Exams
The Drowning Tragedy
According to a police report, at about 5:00 pm on Saturday, October 28, the students drowned at a man-made dam while on a fun trip.
Notably, the five who succumbed were part of a group of Standard Six and Standard Eight pupils accompanied by teachers to a hotel for recreational activities.
However, when the pupils, and the teachers went out for a boat ride, the boat capsized killing five students and leaving behind one survivor.
Nonetheless, angry parents stormed the school seeking information on the whereabouts of their children and an explanation on what happened.
