The nation still reeling from the devastating dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls High School in Gilgil, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left 79 injured. This has awakened the nation to demand for a better performance in structuring school buildings.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has called for discipline, compassion and moral guidance following the school tragedy, highlighting the need to safeguard students in schools.
Speaking during an international prayer day for 2026 KCSE candidates in Nandi County, he described the incident as a painful moment for students, teachers, parents and the nation, urging Kenyans to be pillars of national healing.
“I remind parents and the wider community that discipline must remain the cornerstone of academic achievement, responsible citizenship and social stability.”
The government has already launched investigations into the incident, with eight students arrested for further interrogation to help in investigation into what led the fire. It also pledged to heighten dormitory safety standards, while offering counselors to support the students and the grieving families.
In his remarks at the prayer day, Koskei emphasized improving performance in Mathematics, Chemistry and English as professional pathways to universities.
He was accompanied by Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi and Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, who they stated the government’s commitment to ensuring no child is excluded from quality education and to embrace science subjects while exploring opportunities in agriculture, agribusiness and innovation.
He encouraged the candidates to excel in their academics as they reflect the Kenya’s future and to seek opportunities that come along. Among other leaders who attended the prayer day were Principal Secretaries, MPs, MCAs, teachers, parents, students, and local leaders.
