Former Police DIG Edward Mbugua has proposed abolishing boarding schools in Kenya, suggesting dormitories be converted into labs and workshops.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 12 — Former Deputy Inspector General of Police Edward Mbugua, who founded Utumishi Girls Academy, has proposed the abolition of boarding schools in Kenya, suggesting that existing dormitories be converted into laboratories and workshops.

Speaking in Nakuru County during a memorial service for sixteen Utumishi Girls High School students who perished in a dormitory fire on May 27, Mbugua urged the government, legislators, and education stakeholders to rethink the boarding school system to prevent similar tragedies in future.

First Lady Rachel Ruto attended the services together with senior dignitaries, including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, Members of Parliament, senior police officials, bereaved families, teachers, and students.

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Mbugua advocated for a transition toward day schooling, arguing that strengthening local schools would eliminate the need for learners to travel long distances in search of quality education.

“Those dormitories can be converted into workshops for training,” Mbugua said, adding that government should focus on improving local schools so students do not have to travel from regions such as Nyanza or Migori in search of better education.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Mbugua said responsibility for school fires is shared among all stakeholders, including school boards of management, the clergy, and policymakers.

He noted that the school’s Board of Management, which has since been dissolved, failed to raise concerns despite the institution hosting student numbers that far exceeded its accommodation capacity.

The former police chief also criticised Members of Parliament and other stakeholders for pushing the 100 per cent transition to senior secondary school without ensuring adequate infrastructure to accommodate the increased student population.

Mbugua also used the occasion to clarify the history of Utumishi Girls High School, saying he was compelled to do so following widespread speculation on social media.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya