
The principal of Litein Girls High School is facing widespread condemnation following reports that two students were denied entry and locked outside the school gate at night after returning late from mid-term break. The incident has raised urgent concerns over student safety, leadership judgment, and school discipline policies.
What Happened: Students Stranded at Dusk
According to accounts from students and social media reports, the two girls arrived at the school gate after nightfall, having traveled long distances from Nairobi and other parts of the country. They were refused admission, told to return home, and forced to wait outside in the dark.
A photo published shows the stranded students huddled outside the main gate after dusk. One commenter online questioned the rationale: “Why not allow them in and send them back in the morning if needed?”
The principal is also reported to have instructed the students to go back home, a decision that many believe endangers vulnerable learners.
Public Outcry and Safety Warnings
The lockout has triggered intense backlash from parents, civil society groups, and online critics. Key concerns include:
- The safety of the students late at night outside school premises
- The duty of care schools owe to learners, especially those coming from distant areas
- Whether the principal’s approach is consistent with national education standards
“Those children—what were they supposed to do after being sent back at night?” a social media commenter asked.
This is not the first time such a scenario has arisen. Earlier this year, a school in Nairobi reportedly locked out students over unpaid fees, triggering intervention by a Member of Parliament to restore access.
What’s at Stake: Reputation, Discipline, and Accountability
The principal now must answer hard questions about protocol and compassion. Critics argue that enforcement of school rules should never override basic safety or humanity.
Some predict that authorities in the Ministry of Education or Teachers Service Commission may intervene, demanding explanations or possible sanctions.
For students, especially those from marginalized areas, the incident deepens fear that discipline policies may be applied harshly without regard for context.