• Mbatha said learning in the county has been heavily affected by the prevailing drought, as most parents depend on their livestock to educate and feed their families.
• However, he said the education department has requested the NDMA to supply water in schools.
Image: Abdikadir Chari
The severe drought in Marsabit county is disrupting learning as children keep off schools.
Lack of food is also affecting children under five causing malnutrition, stunted growth and loss of weight.
According to the National Drought Management Authority, a quarter of a million people are in need of food aid due to four consecutive failed rain seasons.
Acute water shortage experienced across the county also causes dehydration among learners in schools.
County director of Education Titus Mbatha said learning in the county has been heavily affected by the prevailing drought, as most parents depend on their livestock to educate and feed their families.
Mbatha who spoke to the press at his office in Marsabit on Monday however, said the education department had requested the NDMA to supply water in schools.
He said the schools will receive water in the course of the week.
The director urged parents to keep their children in school saying they have rolled out programmes to educate parents on the importance of taking their children to school.
He said the programme is in partnership with UNICEF.
Mbatha further asked parents to monitor and protect their children, adding that it is important for parents to ensure their children stay away from irresponsible behaviour and crime.
He said parents should ensure their children are focused on education and are not distracted from their academics.
The director said most parents should complement the teachers' efforts as most learners drop out due to lack of supervision.
"I urge parents to work closely with teachers in monitoring their children's academic performance and any negative changes," he said.
Mbatha said the task should not be shouldered by teachers alone.
He said some parents don't have time for their children as they focus on their economic activities.
The director said the parents assume that teachers will take care of their children both morally and academically.
He challenged parents to look out for their children in the best way possible, if they want them to be good citizens in future.
Mbatha said education is one of the most valuable tools a parent can give to their children.
"Lay a good foundation for your children by ensuring they get a good education despite economic challenges," he said.
The director further urged parents and guardians of adolescent girls to give them attention, to prevent teenage pregnancy and early marriage.
He said digital platforms require extra vigilance from parents to ensure they are not detrimental to their children's holistic growth.
Mbatha said when children do not receive the needed care and attention from parents, they seek support from peers, which could adversely influence their growth and decision making.
He urged parents to prioritise the welfare of their children by paying attention to their needs.
The director said adolescent girls need to feel safe and secure when discussing sex issues with their parents, for proper guidance and counselling.
He however said those who get pregnant while at school will continue with their learning.
Mbatha further said parents should discourage their boys from engaging in boda boda activities at the expense of school.
He said the number of boys in school is dwindling unlike that of girls, which keeps rising.
The director said the government is adequately prepared for the Junior Secondary School transition and the classrooms are complete.
(Edited by Bilha Makokha)