Kaplong Girls High School Closed Indefinitely Amid Protests Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

 

By Vivian Anyango

Kaplong Girls High School has been closed indefinitely following a wave of student-led protests sparked by serious allegations of sexual harassment against a male teacher at the institution. The unrest, which began on the evening of July 19, escalated into chaos as students demanded swift action from school authorities and law enforcement.

According to eyewitness reports, tensions flared after claims emerged that a teacher at the school had made inappropriate advances and engaged in sexually suggestive conversations with students. Some media outlets have reported that the teacher allegedly impregnated a student, further fuelling outrage.

Students, in a bid to express their frustrations over what they termed as prolonged inaction, took to the school compound in protest. The demonstrations quickly turned destructive, with students vandalizing property — breaking window panes in dormitories and classrooms, and damaging the school bus.

Several students were injured during a stampede that broke out amid the turmoil. Those with minor injuries received treatment at St. Clare Kaplong Mission Hospital, while others were admitted for shock and trauma caused by the unfolding events.

In the aftermath, the school's administration made the decision to close the institution indefinitely to allow for investigations and to restore calm. Representatives from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Ministry of Education, and local security agencies have been deployed to assess the situation and manage the ongoing inquiry.

Alumni, parents, and members of the public have voiced their solidarity with the students, urging authorities to ensure justice is served and the accused teacher held accountable if found guilty. “This is not just about one school; it's about safeguarding our daughters and upholding integrity in our education system,” said Mary Chepkwony, a Kaplong Girls alumna and women's rights advocate.

TSC officials have confirmed that a probe is underway and disciplinary action will follow based on the outcome of the investigation. The police have also launched a parallel inquiry into the criminal aspects of the allegations.

Education stakeholders are now calling for long-term reforms and stronger mechanisms to protect learners, including the establishment of confidential reporting channels and mandatory background checks for teachers.