Several Secondary school principals visited different schools affected by the Maai Mahiu tragedy. The group was on a mission to ascertain how learning was being affected after the tragedy. Five schools have been badly affected. Only 60% of the learners have resumed their learning.
“Yes, the calamity happened, but what next? For us, we are looking into the future, and we need to bring them [learners] back to life and secure their future. We cannot stop what happened, but what we can do is support them forward.” Kinyanjui Mwangi, Chairman KSSHA Nakuru
Parents in the area were traumatized by the incident and required mental wellness programs to assist them face life afresh. Mr. Kinyanjui continued, “As principals, we came together and decided to support through material, uniforms, and finances, and at the same time, we will do psycho-social support…”
Speaking at Ngeya Girls Secondary, the chairman said the principals have been forced to change the calendar due to the ongoing heavy rains in the country. Most importantly, they have been guided on how to assist the students. They are involved in debriefing and psychological counseling via the school’s counseling department.
Secondary school principals at Ngeya Secondary school
The principals also reported that they have relaxed some of their rules, such as reporting early in the morning. “We have relaxed the rules, at least for the moment. That issue of reporting early in the morning for the students; we must always look at it with a closer eye.” Apolo Kiiru KSSHA Naivasha area.
The area MP, Jane Kihara, said that she is working closely with the schools to establish the whereabouts of students who survived but have yet to go back to their schools. The MP said close to 55 high school students will have their fees paid in full by the NGCDF. In addition, two in special schools, three in universities, and five in colleges will also benefit.
There are 132 students in primary schools, and they will also be assisted in their learning and feeding.
While some students succumbed during the tragedy, a large number have been unable to return to school as they lost some of their family members and friends. Others are receiving treatment in different hospitals in the area. Others have been hit by depression.
More than 30 people are still missing, and an estimated 100 families are still living in 2 camps in the Maai Mahiu area. As the students who lost their books and other running materials seek to move on with their learning, they may be supported in all the required manners.
