The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil welcomed Grade 10 learners back to school on Monday as it continued its phased reopening following the tragic dormitory fire that claimed the lives of 16 students on May 28.
The reopening began with Form Four students returning on Thursday, July 2, under tight security and a comprehensive psychosocial support programme aimed at helping learners cope with the tragedy. Form Three students are scheduled to resume classes on Thursday, July 9, marking the final phase of the school’s reopening.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
School management said the staggered return is designed to facilitate the implementation of enhanced safety measures while allowing students to receive personalised counselling as the institution gradually returns to normal operations.
To accommodate learners, temporary dormitories have been set up within the school after the Meline Waithera dormitory, where the fire occurred, was closed off as a crime scene pending the completion of investigations.
Meanwhile, eight students have been charged with 16 counts of murder after investigators accused them of starting the blaze that killed the 16 girls.
The accused minors denied the charges and remain at Kabete Children’s Remand Home awaiting a court ruling on their bail application, which is set for September 22, 2026.
During an earlier court session, Lady Justice Diana Kavedza directed that the accused be referred to only as “subject minors” throughout the proceedings. She also instructed their lawyers to prepare them for what is expected to be a lengthy trial due to the number of victims involved.
The judge further ordered probation officers to closely supervise the minors while in remand, including limiting their access to mobile phones and television to protect their mental well-being. Parents were also directed to ensure the girls receive counselling during their stay at the remand home.
Justice Kavedza said the court’s decision on bail will be based on a probation report compiled after consultations with the parents of the deceased students, school administrators, investigators and the eight accused minors.
The fatal fire has continued to spark nationwide concern, with many calling for stronger school safety measures, improved infrastructure and lasting solutions to the increasing cases of unrest in learning institutions.
The tragedy has also reignited debate over the role of parents in shaping children’s values and discipline before they join school.
While addressing the National Assembly on July 2, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and said the incident reflected a collective failure by parents, schools, the government and Parliament to adequately protect children.
He called for a national conversation on the values being instilled in young people, the influence of digital platforms and the declining role of communities in raising children.
Amollo also proposed the formation of a parliamentary ad hoc committee to investigate the growing cases of unrest in schools, arguing that the government’s 100 per cent transition policy has led to overcrowding without corresponding investment in infrastructure.
Referring to images of the burnt dormitory, the legislator said the congestion highlighted serious safety concerns, noting that beds had been placed along corridors and near exits, making the facility unsafe for learners.
