Ng’enyilel MCA Backs Proposal to Phase Out Boarding Schools Amid Rising Fire Incidents

Hon. Benjamin Natui, Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Ng’enyilel Ward, Turbo, Uasin Gishu County, has publicly supported a parliamentary proposal to gradually phase out boarding schools across Kenya. The move comes amid growing concerns over repeated fire incidents in boarding institutions, including the recent tragedy at Utumishi Girls School, where 16 students lost their lives.

Speaking during a community gathering in Eldoret, Natui emphasized that keeping children closer to their families would enable parents to play a more active role in mentoring and supervising their children’s education. “Students often pick up behaviors and habits from peers while in boarding schools. Parental guidance is essential in shaping discipline, values, and life choices,” he said.

Natui highlighted that beyond safety concerns, phasing out boarding schools could improve overall student welfare. “When children live at home, parents can monitor their health, study habits, and emotional wellbeing. It also allows families to instill cultural values and moral guidance more effectively,” he noted.

The MCA also called on the national government, education stakeholders, and school administrators to prioritize safety standards and fire prevention measures in the meantime. “While reforms take time, we must ensure that all schools, whether day or boarding, comply with strict safety protocols to prevent further tragedies,” Natui added.

Boarding schools have long been a key part of Kenya’s education system, providing structured environments and access to extracurricular activities. However, repeated fire accidents and other emergencies have reignited debates about whether the traditional boarding model remains the best option for student welfare and safety.

Education experts have weighed in on the proposal, noting that while boarding schools offer academic advantages, the mental and emotional benefits of day schooling, combined with close family supervision, could outweigh these gains—especially in regions prone to disasters.

Natui’s comments come as the country mourns victims of recent school fires, highlighting the urgent need for policy reforms. The MCA called for a national dialogue involving parents, teachers, lawmakers, and student representatives to determine the future of boarding education in Kenya.

“The safety, growth, and holistic development of our children must be at the heart of all education policies. We cannot continue to wait for tragedies before we act,” Natui concluded.