Parents seek answers after Utumishi Girls Academy fire leaves deaths, injuries and missing students
The Kenyan government has dissolved the Board of Management of Utumishi Girls Academy after preliminary investigations into a deadly dormitory fire revealed serious violations of school safety regulations.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced the decision following findings that the school failed to comply with requirements outlined in the school safety manual and basic education regulations.
According to the investigation, the affected dormitory was overcrowded and one of the exit doors had been locked, creating dangerous conditions that contributed to the tragedy.The fire resulted in the deaths of 16 students and left 79 others injured.
Government officials reported that most of the injured learners have already been treated and discharged, while seven remain hospitalized receiving specialized medical care.Seven students were airlifted from Gilgil and transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital for further treatment.The investigation also found that some learners had warned teachers about planned unrest before the incident occurred.Two teachers are currently being questioned after allegedly failing to take preventive measures despite receiving this information.
The Teachers Service Commission has been informed of the findings and is taking disciplinary action against the school principal for failing to enforce safety standards.The two teachers are also expected to face disciplinary proceedings.
The government says the actions taken are intended to ensure accountability and reinforce compliance with school safety requirements across educational institutions.Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire and the reported unrest that may have contributed to the incident.