President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the government will intensify efforts to improve safety standards in schools following the tragic death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil. His message was delivered by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba during a requiem mass held at Gilgil Stadium on Friday.
In his message, Ruto acknowledged the immense pain being experienced by the affected families and pledged that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure schools remain safe spaces for learners across the country.
He said parents entrust schools with the safety and well-being of their children and that the government has a responsibility to ensure such trust is protected. The President emphasized that authorities would continue reviewing and strengthening safety measures in learning institutions to prevent future tragedies.
The Head of State described the deceased students as young girls full of promise, ambition and dreams for the future. He noted that their deaths had not only affected their families but had also left the entire country in mourning.
Ruto further expressed sympathy to parents who lost their children, saying no grief compares to that of a parent burying a son or daughter. He urged the families to remain strong during the difficult period, assuring them that the nation stood with them in solidarity.
The requiem service brought together leaders from different sectors, including First Lady Rachel Ruto, religious leaders, education stakeholders and members of the public who joined families in paying their final respects to the students.
The President also commended teachers, healthcare workers, emergency responders and security officers who assisted during and after the incident. He said their dedication and compassion helped support victims and grieving families during one of the most difficult moments following the tragedy.
The dormitory fire occurred on May 28 at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, leading to the deaths of the 16 students and sparking national concern over safety standards in schools.
The incident has reignited debate on the need for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, regular inspections of school facilities and improved emergency response systems within learning institutions.
As preparations continue for the students’ final send-off, the government says efforts are underway to strengthen school safety measures and ensure such tragedies do not happen again.
Ruto maintained that the memories of the young learners would continue to live on and called on the nation to honour their lives by working towards safer schools for every child in Kenya.
