On Tuesday, July 2, 2024, schools across the country faced closures and low attendance due to concerns over escalating anti-government demonstrations. The nationwide protests, which many feared could turn violent, led parents to keep their children at home as a precautionary measure.
Numerous schools had already notified parents on Monday about the decision to remain closed. One such message read, “Due to the planned demonstrations Tuesday July 2, 2024, there will be no school as a precautionary measure. We shall resume classes on Wednesday July 3, 2024.” However, the decision for many parents was personal, driven by the fear of their children’s safety.
Classes had resumed on Monday, July 1, 2024, following the mid-term break, but the situation on Tuesday was markedly different. Some schools, such as one in Rongai, adapted by altering their schedules: “We are planning to have physical classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, then use the online platform on Tuesday and Thursday to cover more subjects. We would not want the children in harm’s way.”
In Nairobi, the tension was palpable. At Moi Avenue Primary School, located in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), learners did not turn up, though teachers reported for duty only to leave later as police clashed with protestors, using teargas to disperse the crowds. “We were asked not to take children to school, but I couldn’t have allowed my children to come under such circumstances,” said Chris Were, a concerned parent.
In the Ngara neighborhood, Jamhuri High had not reopened, with staff anticipating a resumption of classes today. At St Brigid’s Public Primary in Pumwani, only 10 out of 250 students attended and were sent home by 10 am. “It’s the parents’ decision, which is good because we don’t have power to protect them if their safety is compromised,” commented a teacher.
Other schools in the city, including Dr Agrrey Primary School, Muslim Primary School, and Muthaiga Primary, also saw low or no attendance. Despite the chaos, some schools like City Primary School in Ngara and Ainsworth Primary School in Eastleigh managed to continue with classes.
The impact of the protests extended beyond Nairobi. In Homa Bay Town, fears of harm from protestors kept many students home, with those attending bringing packed lunches to avoid returning home during the day. John Oguttu, head teacher at Shauri Yako Primary, reported that most teachers were present, though some learners were absent. Similar issues were noted at Lake Primary.
In Kisii Town, schools partially reopened amid the protests, with Kisii High rescheduling its reopening for today. “The opening day from half-term has been moved to Wednesday July 3, 2024. Release the boys early enough,” read a message from the school. Some learners, unfortunately, found themselves caught in the demonstrations as protestors blocked roads.
In Siaya Town, fears of the #occupyeverywhere protests led to deserted streets and closed businesses. John Ouma, a father of three, voiced his concerns: “I don’t trust these youth. Last week, one person was shot dead, and that means the safety of my children is not guaranteed. They will go to school tomorrow.” A senior teacher at Siaya Township Primary reported a turnout of less than half the total enrollment.
Conversely, in rural areas, schools such as Wang Chieng Primary in West Alengo, Upanda Primary, and Palpal Primary continued their lessons without interruption.
As the nation grapples with the ongoing protests, the safety and education of children remain a primary concern for parents, educators, and authorities alike.
