Tension is mounting at Gatunguru Boys High School in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, after parents rejected a directive requiring each student to pay Ksh25,000 for the reconstruction of three dormitories destroyed by fire two weeks ago.
The blaze reduced the dormitories to ashes but caused no injuries. However, students have remained home for two weeks, disrupting learning and raising fears over the readiness of Form Four candidates set to sit their KCSE examinations soon.
The school’s Board of Management directed parents to clear outstanding balances alongside the levy before learners are readmitted. Parents, however, argue the cost is unaffordable given current economic hardships, and fear the delay will disadvantage their children.
The Board defended its decision, saying the figure was based on assessments by the Department of Public Works, which initially estimated the cost at Ksh50,000 per student before it was halved.
Parents are now appealing to the government to intervene, ease the financial burden, and help speed up reconstruction so learners can resume classes.
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