As schools across Kenya grapple with rising cases of student unrest, Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has ignited debate by calling for the reinstatement of corporal punishment as a tool for restoring discipline among learners.
Addressing residents in Iten town, Rotich said increasing incidents of school disturbances point to deeper challenges in the education system, particularly around discipline and parental responsibility.
“What we are seeing in our schools today is a worrying decline in discipline. We cannot continue ignoring the problem while schools burn and learning is disrupted,” said Rotich.
The governor argued that corporal punishment, which was outlawed in Kenyan schools years ago, had previously played a role in shaping responsible behaviour among students.
“Corporal punishment was effective in correcting behaviour and guiding learners. We should not dismiss methods that helped maintain discipline for generations,” he said.
Rotich further criticized what he termed the misuse of democracy in schools, saying some learners have become accustomed to challenging authority rather than respecting school rules.
“Schools are institutions of learning and discipline. Allowing students to dictate terms to teachers and administrators creates confusion and disorder,” he said.
The governor also turned his attention to parents, accusing some of neglecting their role in raising disciplined children.
“Parents cannot hand over all responsibilities to teachers. Discipline begins at home and must be reinforced in school,” he noted.
Referring to the recent unrest at Utumishi Girls Academy, Rotich described the incident as troubling.
“It is deeply concerning that students were captured setting mattresses and doors on fire. Such actions demonstrate the urgent need to restore discipline in our schools,” he said.
Parents who attended the event backed calls for stronger disciplinary measures, saying recurring unrest has affected learning and destroyed valuable school property.
The discussion comes as education stakeholders seek solutions to a wave of unrest that has affected more than 204 secondary schools across Kenya. While some schools have resumed normal operations, others continue to recover from disruptions caused by strikes, arson and property destruction.
Rotich urged families, schools and policymakers to work together to address the root causes of indiscipline.
“Students need constant guidance, direction and accountability. If we all play our role, we can restore order and create a better learning environment for our children,” he said.
