Tharaka Nithi launches operation to return learners to school

Mitheru Assistant County Commissioner Alice Kirumba Kirito (Left)  and Ndumbini Assistant Chief Eric Muriithi during a briefing on the ongoing crackdown against school absenteeism./KNA

A crackdown on parents who keep their children at home after they are sent away from school over unpaid fees has begun in Mitheru, Tharaka Nithi county.

The move follows a directive by Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga during the recent Madaraka Day celebrations.

National government administrative officers, including chiefs, assistant chiefs and assistant county commissioners, have launched an operation to ensure all school-going children remain in school.

Earlier, the commissioner urged parents to make every effort to keep their children in school despite the prevailing economic challenges.

"Every parent should make the necessary effort, despite the tough economic times, to ensure their children remain in school by paying school fees on time. Parents who fail to do so risk legal action. There are many arrangements that can be made between parents and school administrations to ensure learners remain in school," Gitonga said.

As part of the exercise, parents whose children have been absent from school were summoned by Mitheru Assistant County Commissioner Alice Kirumba Kirito for a consultative meeting to address the growing cases of truancy.

Following the day-long meeting at her office, the parents committed to settling school fee arrears and ensuring their children return to school.

Administrators warned that parents who fail to attend the meeting will receive a second summons, after which further action may be taken.

"We have observed an increasing number of learners, particularly in Ndumbini, who are not attending school. We called their parents to discuss the matter because the number continues to rise every day,” Kirito said.

“We are also concerned about cases of teenage pregnancy, especially in day schools, and we want to ensure there are no children loitering in markets or other places instead of being in school."

The assistant county commissioner said follow-up measures would be taken in collaboration with school administrations to ensure the commitments made by parents are fulfilled.

She also urged parents to take full responsibility for their children's education and welfare.

Ndumbini assistant chief Eric Muriithi said several students had remained out of school for extended periods, with many reportedly spending their time at home, in trading centres or even in bars.

"When questioned, the students say they were sent home because of unpaid school fees and that their parents have since made no effort to return them to school," Muriithi said.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

Authorities in Mitheru, Tharaka Nithi county, have launched an operation to return learners to school after reports that some children remained at home following dismissal over unpaid fees. Chiefs, assistant chiefs and other administrators are identifying affected families and engaging parents. Officials say the initiative aims to reduce truancy, child idleness and teenage pregnancies. Parents have been urged to work with schools on fee payment arrangements and ensure their children continue with their education.