St. Bakhita School in Nairobi is facing legal action after a Grade Five pupil was allegedly assaulted by a teacher during a Kiswahili lesson, leaving the child with physical injuries and psychological trauma. The incident has triggered a court case filed by the minor’s father, who is seeking special damages amounting to Ksh.18,000 and further disciplinary measures against the teacher involved.
According to court documents, the pupil was allegedly attacked by her Kiswahili teacher, who pulled her left ear with excessive force. The assault reportedly caused visible injuries, prompting immediate medical attention. The child was treated at a hospital and discharged, but continues to undergo regular check-ups to monitor her recovery.
The lawsuit, filed through lawyer Wycliffe Nyabuto, holds the school’s board of directors liable for the alleged assault. The parent argues that the institution failed in its duty of care by allowing a teacher capable of such aggression to remain in charge of young learners. The petition describes the teacher’s actions as “deliberate, premeditated, and intended to cause extreme pain and suffering.”
In addition to the financial compensation, the parent is asking the court to declare the Kiswahili teacher unfit to work in any educational institution across Kenya. The move is aimed at preventing similar incidents from recurring in other schools.
The case has sparked public concern over the safety and wellbeing of children in learning institutions, especially regarding the enforcement of child protection policies. Corporal punishment in Kenyan schools is banned, and any form of physical or psychological abuse by educators is considered a serious violation of a child’s rights.
As the matter heads to court, education stakeholders and child rights advocates are closely watching the proceedings. The outcome could set a precedent in how such cases are handled and could prompt schools to take more stringent measures to safeguard students.
St. Bakhita School is yet to issue a public statement on the matter.
