One of Vihiga County’s most renowned institutions, was closed on Wednesday, July 23, for the second time this year after another wave of student unrest left several buildings vandalized.
While the damage is regrettable, the crisis has triggered a powerful response bringing to the forefront bold commitments and renewed partnerships to safeguard learning and youth development.
Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Vihiga branch Executive Secretary, Sabala Inyeni, expressed optimism that the situation could be turned around if the right measures are swiftly taken.
“This is a wake-up call. We need not just disciplinary responses but real, investigative solutions.
With the DCI stepping in, we believe the truth will come out and appropriate action will be taken,” said Inyeni.
He emphasized the need for dialogue and community engagement, warning against dismissing students’ concerns without listening.
“Some grievances are minor and could have been resolved peacefully. We must now ask: Is someone influencing these children from outside?”
Education leaders and parents alike are calling for a holistic approach that involves the Ministry of Education, the National Intelligence Service (NIS), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), teachers’ unions, and community leaders to get to the root of the recurring disturbances.
Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Vihiga Secretary, Maurice Chalenga, reiterated the need for urgent action.
“This school has a proud history it has produced some of the best minds in the country. We cannot let it fall into a cycle of chaos. We must protect the legacy of Mbale High.”
Despite the turmoil, there is growing confidence that the recent developments could be a turning point.
The Ministry of Education is expected to convene a high-level crisis meeting in the coming days, bringing together all stakeholders to establish a path forward.
A comprehensive investigation, counseling support for students, and enhanced communication channels are expected to be part of the proposed recovery plan.
Parents, who were previously asked to contribute to repair costs following an earlier incident involving the destruction of a refurbished computer lab, have also voiced their willingness to support efforts aimed at restoring stability on condition that clear accountability and preventive mechanisms are implemented.
“This school is a pillar in this community. As parents, we are ready to support reforms that will bring order and restore discipline,” said one parent.
As Vihiga County comes to terms with recent events, the energy and commitment from all quarters suggest that while the school is temporarily closed, the resolve to rebuild it stronger, safer, and more inclusive is very much alive.
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