Mistrust causing unrest in Kenyan schools, new study says

A picture of a burned dormitory Itierio Boys High School in Kisii county in a picture taken on June 26, 2016. A new report has revealed that most students don't trust their teachers and this is fuelling unrest in schools. (PHOTO: DENISH OCHIENG/ STANDARD)

Most students don't trust their teachers and this is fuelling unrest in schools, a new report has revealed.

The report by the University of Nairobi says perception of high handedness by teachers has also led to increased cases of student riots.

The study, 'Role of coordination in management and evaluation of communication programmes in schools', recommends a participatory approach in resolving issues affecting students.

At least 43 per cent of students don't believe their teachers are truly friendly to them while 14 per cent stated school administrators are not friendly to them at all.

"This means a combined score of 57 per cent of students are unhappy with the system of administration in their schools, which is a great hindrance to two-way communication between them and teachers," states the report.

The survey sought the views of teachers, principals, educationists, both current and former students, court prosecutors, police and schools' support staff.

former students

A massive 86 per cent of former students said administrations in their former schools were hostile to them.

"Autocracy by school administrators has made it difficult for students to effectively communicate. Many indicated the school environment is not conducive for them to air their opinions. As such, they resort to alternative ways, such as strikes," reads the report released yesterday.

These findings are set to stir up discussions on how to better the relationship between teachers and students as the country continues to face resurgence of unrest.

Last week, President Uhuru Kenyatta asked secondary school heads to be flexible and embrace dialogue with students even as they implement school rules.

He said reports that some schools were burnt because students were denied a chance to watch a football match showed how rigid some principals are.