West Pokot Faces Uncertainty as Schools Remain Shut Towards End of Term 1
The educational future of numerous students in West Pokot County remains uncertain as many learners from schools affected by banditry have not returned since January this year. Despite the government’s announcement to rehabilitate vandalized schools and enhance security, learners have either sought refuge in neighboring schools or dropped out altogether. The situation raises concerns about how the interior ministry plans to ensure the resumption of learning in schools affected by banditry, highlighting the government’s commitment to restoring peace in the region.
Seven schools in Chesegon and Turkwel, areas plagued by insecurity, were closed two years ago due to rampant violence. The government allocated Ksh100 million for infrastructure restoration and purchasing new facilities in these vandalized schools. However, the delayed return of learners and the incomplete rehabilitation process have led to questions about the effectiveness of the government’s efforts. The affected schools include Cheptulel Boys, Samplomoi, Chesegon, Arpollo, and KSA Primary schools, where students missed KCPE and KPSEA exams last year due to banditry, as well as Lonyangalem, Kour Primary Songok, Tirap, and Cheratat.
Local residents and leaders express skepticism about the government’s promises, citing corruption and lack of accountability in the rehabilitation process. The absence of National Police Reservists (NPRs) to offer security adds to the challenges faced by these schools. Some schools, like Chesegon Technical Institute, have stalled construction due to security concerns and are now being used to house security officers. Locals demand transparency regarding the allocation of funds for renovation and question the efficiency of the rehabilitation efforts.
A spot check at Cheptulel Secondary reveals that learners are still accommodated in Surumben Primary, more than 50 kilometers away, with inadequate security measures. Concerns are raised about the lack of proper renovation, the absence of essential facilities like toilets, and the general condition of the schools. The leaders, including West Pokot Senator Julius Murgor, Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong’, and West Pokot Woman Representative Rael Kasiwai, argue that the schools are not ready to host learners, and the promised feeding program has not been implemented. The leaders call for accountability, transparency, and the reinstatement of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to enhance community confidence and security in the region.
