By News Desk
The National Parents Association (NPA) has called on the Government to expedite burial arrangements for the 16 students who lost their lives in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls High School, saying affected families deserve an opportunity to give their children a dignified farewell without further delay.
Speaking on behalf of the Association, National Chairman Mr. Silas David Obuhatsa commended the Government for facilitating DNA identification processes that have enabled families to positively identify the remains of their loved ones.
“In African tradition, and particularly within Kenyan society, the burial of the deceased according to the wishes and customs of the family remains a sacred responsibility. We appeal to the Government to allow families that are ready to proceed with burial arrangements to do so immediately,” said Obuhatsa.
The Association urged the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to consider holding the final requiem mass for the victims within the next five days instead of ten days, noting that many family members have been unable to return to work as they await an opportunity to lay their children to rest.
NPA further appealed to political leaders, religious institutions, corporate organizations, and well-wishers to support the affected families through prayers, emotional assistance, and financial support.
“This tragedy is a national disaster that requires collective compassion and responsibility. Kenyans expect to see unity and solidarity during this difficult period,” the statement noted.
Boarding Schools Must Not Be Abolished
The Association also cautioned against calls to abolish boarding schools following the tragedy, arguing that such institutions remain critical to Kenya’s education system.
According to NPA, boarding schools provide structured learning environments that foster academic excellence, discipline, social development, and equal access to education for learners from disadvantaged and remote areas.
“Rather than abolishing boarding schools, stakeholders should focus on strengthening safety standards and improving student welfare in all institutions,” Obuhatsa said.
Discipline Remains Key in Schools
The Association also sought to clarify recent remarks by Education Principal Secretary Professor Julius Bitok regarding student engagement in schools.
NPA emphasized that encouraging learners to express their concerns does not mean surrendering authority to students or allowing school management structures to be undermined.
“Students attend school to learn, build character, and prepare for their future—not to govern schools. Discipline remains one of the most important pillars of educational success and must continue to be upheld,” the Association stated.
The Association added that school principals remain government officers entrusted with managing educational institutions and should receive the necessary support to maintain order and protect the interests of learners committed to their studies.
Parents Urged to Guide Learners During Mid-Term Break
As schools prepare for the forthcoming mid-term break, NPA urged parents to take a more active role in guiding and counseling their children on discipline, respect for authority, responsible decision-making, and the importance of education.
The Association warned students against engaging in strikes and unrest, reminding them that academic calendars and national examinations will continue as scheduled regardless of disruptions.
NPA concluded by calling on all stakeholders—including government agencies, parents, teachers, learners, religious leaders, and communities—to work together to ensure schools remain safe, disciplined, and conducive environments for learning while supporting families affected by tragedy with dignity and compassion.
