Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has proposed a review of Kenya's school calendar, citing increasing cases of student unrest and dormitory fires in learning institutions across the country.
Speaking on the matter, Nyoro expressed concern about the growing incidence of indiscipline in schools, arguing that the current academic schedule may be placing excessive pressure on learners. He noted that prolonged school terms and limited breaks could be contributing to stress and frustration among students.
“Tukiangalia kama Nchi tuone kama mhula wa pili ni mrefu sana, na inakuwanga na mambo mengi inafanyika. Tukiangalia kama Nchi tuone kama tunaweza badilisha calender ya mashule, kwa mhuka wa pili iwekwe siku ya watoto kutembelewe ikiwa kando nalikizo fupi,, inaweza punguza haya makali,” Ndindi Nyoro proposed. "or we have 2 short mid breaks.’ He added.
Speaking on Thursday in his constituency, the legislator urged education stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, to re-evaluate the second-term school calendar, arguing that additional breaks during the second term could help ease pressure on learners and reduce cases of unrest.
“Naiuliza Wizara, badala ya sisi viongozi kujipiga kifua, tuangalie kama kuna jambo tunaweza kufanya kuhusu kupitia upya kalenda ya muhula wa pili wa masomo, kwa sababu ndiyo muhula ambao mara nyingi hukumbwa na changamoto nyingi,” said the Kiharu MP.
Nyoro's remarks come amid a rise in reported dormitory fires and unrest at several secondary schools, incidents that have disrupted learning and raised concerns about student welfare and school safety.
The recurring cases of student unrest have reignited debate over the state of learner welfare in schools, with education stakeholders urging a stronger focus on mentorship, counselling and meaningful engagement between students, school administrators and parents as a way of preventing future incidents.
Nyoro said some of the country’s leading institutions are among those experiencing challenges, an indication that the problem cuts across different categories of schools.
The MP proposed the introduction of short breaks within the term, saying such a move could provide students with an opportunity to reconnect with their families and relieve academic stress before resuming their studies.
The second term is widely regarded as the most demanding period in the academic calendar, with schools intensifying syllabus coverage and examination preparations, particularly for candidates sitting national exams. The packed schedule and increased academic expectations often place additional pressure on both learners and teachers.
