By THE DISPATCH DIGITAL REPORTER
Seventeen learners have tragically lost their lives in a night fire that engulfed a boys’ dormitory at Endarasha Hillside Academy in Kieni West Sub County, Nyeri County. The devastating incident also left 14 other learners injured, who were swiftly taken to hospital for treatment.
The school has a total of 824 learners, comprising 422 girls and 402 boys. Of these, 156 boys and 160 girls are boarders. All 156 boys were housed in the ill-fated dormitory where the fire broke out.
President William Ruto, currently on a visit to China, has ordered an immediate investigation into the fire and pledged action against those responsible. However, there are concerns over the lack of tangible outcomes from the President’s previous promises of action in similar cases.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba was also out of the country, accompanying the President in China. Dr. Belio Kipsang, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education, conveyed his and the ministry’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
This incident is not the first of its kind. The first major school fire in Kenya occurred at St. Kizito Boys, claiming several lives. Since then, numerous fires have followed, some reportedly linked to indiscipline or stress as exams approach. The cause of the Endarasha fire remains unknown at this point.
The government previously introduced safety measures following school fire incidents, mandating dormitories to have at least two doors and clear fire escape routes. However, questions remain over how 17 boys perished in a dormitory housing 156 students, with many burnt beyond recognition.