Tengecha Boys High School has been closed indefinitely after a fire destroyed several dormitories at the institution on Sunday evening, October 4.
Kericho County Education Director Julius Ngoneshi confirmed the closure on Monday, October 5, saying the school board had resolved to send all students home as it assesses the extent of the damage.
According to Ngoneshi, the fire primarily affected facilities used by Grade 10 students, who have a population of 571, prompting the temporary closure of the school.
“The board has sat down and decided that it is best for the students to go home. Most of the infrastructure affected belonged to Grade 10 students, who are 571 in number,” Ngoneshi stated.
He explained that the decision would give the school administration time to evaluate the damage and determine the measures required before students can return.
Adding "The purpose of this is to let the school board management assess the extent of the damage, and take necessary measures."
Images and videos from the scene obtained by Vantage Ke showed residents joining students and members of staff in efforts to contain the blaze.
The fire reportedly became difficult to control after flames spread across the affected section of the dormitory, sparking concern that it could spread to other parts of the school.
A joint effort involving students, staff and members of the surrounding community eventually brought the fire under control. However, the second floor of the affected dormitory sustained significant damage, with windows and other infrastructure destroyed.
Ngoneshi confirmed that there were no reported injuries following the incident. The education official did not however provide a date for when the students would be required to report back, as the school management continues to assess the situation.
Meanwhile, no arrests have been made in connection with the fire. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations to establish what caused the blaze and determine whether any criminal activity was involved.
The incident comes months after Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced tougher measures aimed at addressing school fires and student unrest.
The government has warned that individuals found responsible for destruction of school property during the Third Term, which runs until October 23, will face accountability.
Under the measures, parents may be required to meet the full cost of repairing or rebuilding school infrastructure destroyed during student unrest. Schools that are temporarily closed following disturbances will also be required to recover the learning time lost.
Students and other individuals found to have participated in arson will face criminal charges, while school boards that fail to enforce safety measures or comply with education regulations risk being dissolved by the government.
