The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Maseno East Diocese8 has called on the government to strengthen chaplaincy programmes in schools amid rising cases of student unrest, arson attacks, and disruptions to learning in educational institutions across the country.
Diocese Bishop Benard Owuor noted that chaplaincy services play a crucial role in providing moral guidance, counseling, and spiritual support to learners, helping to address behavioral challenges before they escalate into crises.
He expressed concern over the increasing incidents of indiscipline in schools and urged education stakeholders to work closely with chaplains, teachers, parents, and community leaders to promote discipline, peace, and a conducive learning environment.
Addressing the press at Ahero ACK on Thursday, Owuor said the increasing destruction of school property threaten both the safety of learners and the future of Kenya’s education system.
He noted that repeated cases of school fires and violence have left parents, teachers, and students worried, calling for a coordinated response from government agencies, schools, religious organizations, and families.
According to the bishop, schools are not only centres of academic excellence but also institutions responsible for nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.
He warned that acts of vandalism and arson erase years of investment made by communities, sponsors, and taxpayers while denying students access to quality learning environments.
Bishop Owuor further emphasized the need to tackle the root causes of student unrest rather than focusing solely on punishment.
He identified mental health challenges, pressure to perform academically, unstable family backgrounds, substance abuse, negative peer influence, and weak communication channels within schools as some of the factors fueling the crisis.
The church leader advocated for enhanced counselling services and mentorship programmes, arguing that chaplains play a critical role in providing spiritual guidance, emotional support, and moral direction to learners.
He also urged school managements to prioritize safety by investing in fire prevention measures, emergency response systems, and regular evacuation drills to safeguard both students and staff.
Stressing the value of human life, Bishop Owuor said educational institutions must place the welfare and security of learners above all else, noting that while damaged infrastructure can be repaired, lives lost cannot be replaced.
The Diocese further encouraged schools to establish open and structured forums where students can air grievances and participate in discussions affecting their welfare.
Such platforms, he said, can help prevent frustrations from escalating into destructive actions.
Parents were also challenged to take a leading role in instilling discipline, integrity, and moral values in their children, with the bishop noting that character development begins at home and should be reinforced by schools and faith-based institutions.
Additionally, the church called on the Ministry of Education to investigate recent cases of unrest and address broader challenges affecting schools, including overcrowding, inadequate facilities, and limited access to professional counselling services.
The Diocese urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, religious groups, communities, and parents, to work together in restoring discipline, promoting dialogue, and creating safe learning environments for all students.
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