Are Boarding Schools Still Safe? To Be Or Not To Be

A series of school fires has reignited debate about student safety, with some questioning whether boarding schools still have a place in modern education.

For the past century, Kenyan boarding schools have been used as training facilities where adolescents are trained to become respectable people in society, but in recent years, they have become parents’ biggest worries, with the thought of whether this term will end with my child home in my hands or will they become another hero due to the ongoing fires.

Why the calls for a ban?

These incidents have sparked a public debate about whether boarding schools are safe anymore and whether they should continue to exist. Many people argue that boarding schools expose students to risks due to overcrowded dormitories, inadequate emergency exits, unsafe security protocols, and outdated infrastructure, as was the case with the Utumishi Girls fire in Gilgil, Nakuru County.

Whenever a fire breaks out, students’ safety becomes one of the most thought-of aspects: “Is my child ok?” “Was there enough water to keep the fire at bay before the fire brigade arrived?” “Does the school have the ability to respond effectively during such kinds of emergencies?”

As a result, some parents and education stakeholders come up with the idea that boarding schools should be phased out or banned altogether.

However, it may not be one of the best solutions, considering that they are one of the longest-living institutions yet. They provide students with a structured learning environment, reduce distractions from home and often improve academic performance. For students from remote areas, Boarding schools offer quality education that they may not have near their homes.

Safety not closure

Instead of banning boarding schools, attention should be directed toward improving the safety standards. Schools should invest in fire detection systems, emergency exits, firefighting equipment and regular safety inspections. Students and staff should undergo regular safety drills in case of any security breach. Additionally, authorities must enforce strict regulations and hold institutions accountable for failing to meet safety requirements.

Looking forward

The recent fire serves as a wake-up call for school administrators, government agencies and communities, with multiple other schools getting closed due to distress and unrest amongst the students. While the incidents highlight serious safety concerns, they should encourage reform by strengthening safety measures and improving oversight. Boarding schools can continue to provide valuable educational opportunities while ensuring students’ well-being.

Thus, the debate should not focus on banning boarding schools but making them safer to create a learning environment where students can thrive academically without compromising their safety.

Also Read: School Fires, Closures and Unrest: Is Kenya Missing the Real Problem?

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