Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has won praise from Kenyans after coming to the aid of students who were left stranded following the abrupt closure of Naivasha Girls High School amid growing safety concerns in learning institutions.
The students, many of whom were unable to secure immediate transport from their parents or guardians, were reportedly forced to walk nearly four kilometres from the school to the Naivasha bus terminus in order to begin their journeys home.
The closure comes at a time when schools across the country are on high alert following a wave of unrest and safety-related incidents.
In recent days, several institutions have suspended learning after student disturbances, while the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed the lives of 16 students and left dozens injured.
According to Mike Sonko, Naivasha Girls High School released learners after concerns emerged over their safety, prompting many parents to rush to the institution.
However, not all guardians were able to arrive on time, leaving some students to make the long trek to the bus stage carrying their belongings.
It was during this difficult moment that Sonko encountered the students and decided to help.
Sharing the experience on social media, the former governor said he was touched by their situation and felt compelled to lend a hand.
“After the unrest and closure of Naivasha Girls High School, many students whose parents could not make it to the school were forced to walk nearly 4 kilometers to the Naivasha bus terminus so they could connect to their various home destinations. Seeing their struggle touched my heart. I sympathized with them and offered some assistance for bus fare and food for their journey home. It was a small gesture, but one aimed at easing their burden during a difficult and uncertain moment.
My prayers are with all the students, parents, teachers, and school communities affected by the recent unrest in our schools. May God protect our children, restore calm in our learning institutions, and grant safe journeys to all those returning home,” Mike Sonko wrote.
Photos and videos of the encounter quickly circulated online, with many Kenyans commending Sonko for what they described as a timely act of compassion.
Supporters noted that while the assistance may have appeared modest, it provided immediate relief to students who had suddenly found themselves in an uncertain situation far from home.
The incident has also reignited debate about the state of safety and student welfare in Kenyan schools. The recent spate of unrest has seen several institutions temporarily shut down as administrators seek to prevent further disturbances and guarantee the security of learners.
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As parents, teachers and education stakeholders continue to seek solutions to the growing crisis, Sonko’s intervention has stood out as one of the more heartwarming moments to emerge from a period marked by anxiety and uncertainty in the country’s education sector.
For many Kenyans online, the image of stranded schoolgirls receiving help from a passing well-wisher served as a reminder that simple acts of kindness can make a significant difference during difficult times.
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