Tensions flared at St. Stephen’s Usingo Secondary School on Tuesday morning after students staged demonstrations demanding the transfer of their principal. The protests, which began around 6 a.m., saw learners march outside the school gate carrying placards and tree branches as they aired grievances over what they termed poor leadership and mismanagement.
The aggrieved students accused the principal of allegedly demanding money from them despite the school grappling with an acute shortage of teachers. They further lamented that the administration’s actions threatened to derail their education, particularly as schools reopen for the crucial third term.
Among the key complaints raised was the lack of adequate teaching staff and the principal’s alleged plans to dismiss some teachers. Learners also cited frustration over poor meals and frequent suspensions from school.
“We are tired of the same meals every day. We are also tired of being sent home every week. We want a principal who is serious and concerned with our academics,” one student remarked during the protest.
Despite efforts by some teachers to pacify the unrest, the students vowed to continue demonstrating until their demands are addressed. They insisted on having a leadership change that would prioritize their academic welfare and ensure a conducive learning environment.
The Usingo unrest adds to a growing list of school protests across the country this year. In April, Ramba Boys High School in Siaya witnessed similar demonstrations when students demanded the removal of their principal over alleged poor management. That incident escalated into violence, with the security house near the main gate torched before learners marched through a nearby market chanting slogans.
The Ministry of Education has yet to issue a statement regarding the Usingo standoff, but education stakeholders are expected to step in to mediate and restore calm.
As the third term kicks off nationwide, the protests at St. Stephen’s highlight lingering challenges in school administration, resource allocation, and student welfare that continue to fuel unrest in learning institutions.
