Torongo Girls School, located in Eldama Ravine Subcounty, was closed indefinitely following student protests over the transfer of their principal, Christine Chepkole. The unrest, which unfolded in early February, was triggered by administrative changes that saw the principal reassigned to Kaptagat Girls School.
The situation escalated when students, displeased with the transfer, organized a march spanning over 27 kilometers to the Education Offices in Eldama Ravine. The students made it clear that their protest was against the administrative changes, demanding that Principal Chepkole remain at Torongo Girls. According to the protesting students, Chepkole had made significant strides in improving the school’s academic performance, making her departure a source of concern.
In response to the unfolding situation, Koibatek Subcounty Education Director David Kipsang intervened, ordering the release of the students from school for security reasons. Kipsang assured the students and the public that their grievances would be addressed in a meeting scheduled with the school’s board. He emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the matter and assured the students that their concerns were being taken seriously.
While the students’ actions were peaceful, their frustrations were palpable, and the protest reflected their strong attachment to their principal, who had been at the helm during a period of academic success for the school. Despite the disruption, the students were commended for maintaining a disciplined approach and not resorting to violence. The peaceful protest highlighted the significance of Principal Chepkole’s leadership in fostering a positive and productive environment at the school.
The administration of Torongo Girls has seen significant success in recent years, with the school emerging as the second-best in the subcounty in terms of academic performance. It recorded an impressive mean score of 7.46, placing just behind Baringo High School. The school’s academic excellence, under Principal Chepkole’s leadership, has contributed to its reputation and is a factor in the students’ strong attachment to her.
As the situation develops, the school board is expected to hold a meeting to address the concerns raised by the students and determine the next course of action. The closure of the school remains indefinite until a resolution is reached, with students eagerly awaiting the outcome of the scheduled discussions.
The events at Torongo Girls serve as a reminder of the critical role school leadership plays in shaping the educational experience and the strong bond between students and their school administrators.
