Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has ruled out any early closure of schools or changes to the academic calendar even as cases of student unrest continue to be reported in parts of the country.
Speaking during the Prize-Giving Day at Kenya High School in Nairobi, Bitok said learning will continue as scheduled in all public and private schools stressing that the unrest being witnessed is limited to only a small number of institutions and does not justify a nationwide shutdown.
He said the Ministry of Education is instead focusing on targeted interventions, working with school principals, boards of management and regional education officers to address specific challenges in affected schools. According to him, each case is being handled individually depending on its causes and severity.
Bitok also addressed the issue of examinations directly warning schools against holding tests that may trigger tension among learners. He said the government is ready to intervene where necessary to reduce pressure on students.
“We have asked all our principals to stop any type of examinations in this term that is going to create anger, disappointment or discourage any student,” he said adding that schools must avoid unnecessary academic pressure during a volatile term.
He further explained that examinations that are poorly timed or too stressful can worsen unrest urging school administrators to prioritise student wellbeing over strict academic scheduling. According to him, forcing learners to sit for exams when they are not ready only increases frustration and tension in schools.
The PS added that the ministry is encouraging dialogue as the main tool for managing unrest alongside strengthening counselling services in schools. He said many of the current challenges are linked to communication gaps, exam pressure, harsh disciplinary approaches and mental health concerns among learners.
At the same time, Bitok confirmed that a nationwide school safety audit is underway to assess risks in boarding schools and other learning institutions. The findings are expected to guide reforms in infrastructure, safety systems and student welfare programmes.
He also urged school heads to adopt more supportive and student-centred approaches warning against punitive discipline methods that may escalate tensions. He said schools must create environments where learners feel heard and supported.
Despite the unrest, the government maintains that learning must go on with only affected schools receiving direct intervention. The Ministry of Education has assured parents that it is closely monitoring the situation but insists that closing schools nationwide remains off the table.