Probe link between indiscipline and arson in Kenyan schools

NAIROBI: In the last few weeks, all manner of theories have been advanced concerning why students are setting their schools on fire. One of the most widely held views coming from the government is that corruption networks have been behind the wave of arson attacks perpetrated by those who want to sell leaked examination papers. In its bid to explain why about 120 school dormitories have been set on fire by students, Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has also advanced the theory that some school administrators have been abetting this crime to camouflage theft of funds provided by the government for free schooling.

However, a survey by Infotrak Research and Consulting commissioned by The Standard on Sunday offers very varied views. From the empirical evidence that comes from sampling 800 respondents, it would appear that the main reason for the arson attacks is indiscipline. According to the survey, 38.1 per cent of the respondents think the arson is largely fuelled by “lack of values and discipline” among students, while another 16 per cent of the respondents think the changes in the school term dates and prevention of visitation is the cause.

This varies significantly with the four per cent who think criminal networks are behind the spate of fires.
The survey offers ground for fresh thinking, therefore, the government-appointed taskforce investigating this matter should keep an open mind as it seeks to get to the bottom of this crisis.