Nine students were hospitalized after a severe storm hit St Aloys Mayenya Secondary School in Kisumu County. The storm resulted in significant damage to the school’s infrastructure. The storm occurred on the evening of September 25, 2024. It blew off the roofs of classrooms, teachers’ offices, and the staffroom.
This left the school in disarray. Fortunately, the students who were injured sustained only minor injuries. They have since been discharged from the hospital. Some stay in shock from the incident.
The school principal, Judith Atieno, expressed concerns about the immediate resumption of classes due to the destruction. She asked the local community to help rebuild the damaged infrastructure. She also urged the government to help a quick return to learning.
Crown Media
The urgency of the situation is heightened. The affected classrooms are crucial for students preparing for upcoming national examinations.
The storm is part of a broader pattern of heavy rainfall affecting the Nyanza region. This has caused widespread destruction. It has also left many residents facing losses. The Kenya Meteorological Department had earlier warned of heavy rains and thunderstorms. These were expected across the country.
The warnings raised concerns about safety in schools. This incident follows a troubling trend of calamities in educational institutions, prompting calls for improved safety measures.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has responded to these incidents. He has directed regional education officers to guarantee compliance with safety policies. These policies aim to protect students.
A report from the Auditor General highlighted the lack of emergency response mechanisms in schools. This issue is particularly prevalent in boarding institutions. The report underscores the need for enhanced safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
