EMMANUEL WEKESA
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced the immediate midday release of all students at Utumishi Girls' Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of 16 learners.
Authorities Urge Parents to Report and Ensure Student Safety
The CS stated that students will only be released once authorities complete the process of accounting for all learners. During this period, parents are urged to report any concerns through the government hotline provided for ongoing investigations and to facilitate communication regarding students who may have left school with guardians during the incident.
The government has activated hotline number 1199 for parents and guardians to report any missing students or relevant information. The CS emphasized the importance of waiting for the outcome of investigations before speculating about the cause of the fire, which erupted around 12:45 am and was contained by emergency response teams by 3 am.
Out of a total of 815 girls enrolled at Utumishi Girls' Academy, 808 were present at the time of the incident, with 7 girls at home for undisclosed reasons. So far, 16 learners have been confirmed dead, with 79 injured and rushed to nearby hospitals. The majority of injured have been treated and discharged.
The incident has reignited calls for strict enforcement of school safety regulations and thorough investigations into the school's compliance with safety standards. The CS noted that investigations are ongoing and that the safety manual adhered to by schools will be thoroughly reviewed to prevent future tragedies.
