A storm has erupted in Litein, Kericho County, after the principal of Litein Girls High School allegedly locked out two students who arrived late from the mid-term break.
Reports indicate that the learners, who returned past the reporting deadline, were denied entry into the school compound and ordered to return home. Witnesses claim the students were left waiting outside the gate at night, sparking outrage from parents and members of the public.
Concerns quickly spread online, with many questioning the principal’s decision to expose the students to potential danger.
“Why not allow them in and send them back home the following morning if she really needs to?” one citizen asked.
Others condemned the administration for disregarding the safety of the girls.
“What were those children supposed to do after being sent back at night?” another parent questioned.
The incident has renewed debate over disciplinary measures in schools, especially regarding late reporting. Many argue that while discipline is necessary, the welfare of students must remain the top priority.
This is not an isolated case. Earlier this year, students from St. Anne’s Girls Secondary School in Nairobi were forced to spend part of the night outside after being sent away over fee arrears. They were only admitted back after Makadara MP George Aladwa intervened.
Similarly, in March, Kegonye Secondary School in Nyeri County faced criticism when seven students were stranded in Othaya town after arriving an hour late. With no transport back home, the learners were later taken to a local police station for safety.
Education stakeholders are now calling for school heads to adopt child-sensitive disciplinary approaches. While punctuality and accountability are key, many argue that punishment should never compromise student safety.
The Ministry of Education has yet to issue an official statement on the Litein Girls incident. However, the growing trend of learners being locked out at night is raising urgent questions about student protection and the responsibilities of school administrators.
