Matiang'i turns heat on parents to end student unrest

Parents will be forced to deposit extra funds in schools as an insurance should their children destroy property, if a proposal by the Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i is ratified.

The minister told Senate that plans are underway to introduce an indemnity agreement between the parents and schools. The move would introduce further expenses over and above the caution money charged by schools.

Under the agreement, parents will deposit cash in schools that will be ceded to institutions should their dependent engage the rioting gear. Cash to be ceded will be graduated based on the severity of the breach.

“We are considering making parents sign an indemnity agreement with the schools hoping that this will compel them to be more involved in the activities of their children in school,” said Dr Matiang’i.

A total of 68 fire incidents had been reported in schools this year in 15 counties, with most arsons having been carried out by students.

Dr Matiang’i blamed increasing cases of unrest on failure to punish perpetrators, most of them students.

He said 317 cases have been reported since 2007 but less than 20 per cent have been prosecuted successfully.

Presently, parents are compelled to pay for damages.