The invasion has since been linked to illegal dumping   (Photo: AI/Chat GPT)                                 

Learning at Machakos Primary School was disrupted after large rats began entering classrooms during lessons, frightening pupils and distracting teachers.

The invasion has since been linked to illegal dumping of household waste along a road near the school fence and main gate.

Although the school compound is said to be clean, some neighbouring residents have reportedly turned the area outside the fence into a dumping site.

The waste has created a strong smell and provided a breeding ground for rats and other pests.

The rodents are believed to be crossing through openings in the school fence and finding their way into classrooms.

A whistleblower told a local TV Station that the large rats enter classes at random, causing panic among learners.

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Teachers have also been affected because lessons are interrupted whenever pupils spot the animals moving inside or near classrooms.

One teacher, who asked not to be named, said pupils no longer have peace while learning.

The teacher said the school had tried to alert the relevant offices, but the problem had not yet been solved.

The reports have raised concern among parents and teachers, who fear that the rats could expose children to health risks.

Rodents can contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine, making proper waste control and cleaning important in schools.

Parents and teachers are now calling on the Machakos County Government, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and public health officers to act quickly.

They want illegal dumping stopped, the waste cleared and the affected area fumigated.

The school administration had reportedly raised the matter several times with authorities before the infestation worsened, but residents say no effective action has been taken