Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura during the 80th anniversary of Thika School for the Visually Impaired on June 13, 2026/X
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has expressed concern over rising incidents of unrest in schools, warning that destruction of property and disruption of learning are undermining investments made by parents, communities and the government.
Speaking during the 80th anniversary celebrations of Thika School for the Visually Impaired on Saturday, Ogamba said recent cases of school unrest pose a serious threat to the education sector and the welfare of learners.
"Schools must remain places of learning, character formation and personal growth," the CS said.
He urged parents, teachers, religious leaders and government agencies to work together in instilling positive values among learners and guiding them towards responsible behaviour.
"These incidents remind us, as parents, teachers, the clergy and the Government, that we must train and guide our children with positive values and virtues. Our children must learn that whatever grievances they may have, there is no justification for causing harm to others and destroying property," he said.
Ogamba said the recent incidents should serve as a wake-up call for stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at creating safer and more supportive learning environments across the country.
"It is my hope that these experiences will strengthen our collective resolve to build safer, more caring and more supportive learning environments for every child," he added.
The CS spoke during celebrations marking 80 years since the establishment of Thika School for the Visually Impaired, one of Kenya's leading institutions for learners with visual impairment. The event also coincided with the commemoration of International Albinism Awareness Day 2026 and the 20th anniversary of the Albinism Society of Kenya.
Ogamba hailed the school for its contribution to inclusive education, describing its history as a remarkable story of faith, compassion and transformation.
"In the last eighty years, and from very humble beginnings, this institution has travelled an extraordinary journey into a Centre of Excellence," he said.
He noted that the school has transformed the lives of thousands of learners with visual impairment and expanded its programmes and facilities to serve students from across Kenya and beyond.
The CS acknowledged challenges facing the institution, including increasing enrolment, pressure on facilities and the high cost of specialised instructional materials and equipment.
"As a Government, we are committed to promoting access, inclusion and quality in our education system. We will therefore support this institution in improving infrastructure and addressing other resource requirements to achieve the institution's full potential," he said.
Ogamba also used the occasion to call for greater inclusion of persons with albinism and other vulnerable groups in society.
Referring to the International Albinism Awareness Day theme, "Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones," he said Kenyans must reject stereotypes and harmful misconceptions while embracing diversity and equality.
"While we have made significant progress as a Nation, we recognise that persons with albinism continue to face challenges including stigma, discrimination, social exclusion and health vulnerabilities," he said.
The CS reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and promoting access to education and healthcare.
He concluded by calling on Kenyans to renew their commitment to building an education system and society that leaves no one behind.
"Let us continue promoting dignity, equality and inclusion. Let us continue supporting our institutions, empowering our teachers and investing in our learners," Ogamba said.
