Ambira Boys High School Closes Following Student Unrest
SIAYA COUNTY — Ambira Boys High School has been closed indefinitely following a student riot that resulted in substantial property damage and several injuries. The disturbance began shortly after evening preparations and escalated throughout the night. School administrators subsequently sent students home as security personnel worked to restore order.
Reports indicate that the incident started when a group of students assaulted a Form Three learner. This initial altercation quickly expanded, leading to students throwing stones at the teachers’ quarters and vandalizing school infrastructure.
Property Damage Assessment
During the unrest, students targeted both administrative and academic buildings. Significant damage was recorded in the dormitories, science laboratories, staffroom, bursar’s office, and the school kitchen.
The recently upgraded computer laboratory was heavily vandalized, with reports stating that only one computer was left intact. Furthermore, the principal’s office sustained severe damage, including broken windows and the destruction of shelves containing student result slips.
Officers from the Ugunja Police Station responded to the incident to manage the situation. During the intervention, several individuals, including a police officer, sustained injuries and received medical attention.
Ongoing Investigations
Following the riot, graffiti was found on school walls displaying messages such as “Government help us” and “Kauko, the former principal, we miss you.”
School Board Chairperson Eliud Owino characterized the property damage as extensive, noting that the school will need to rebuild significantly due to the loss of documents and equipment. The impact on Form Four candidates remains unclear as authorities proceed with their investigations.
According to Benson James Aluodo, authorities are examining potential underlying issues at the institution. These include unverified allegations of assault, substance abuse, and dissatisfaction with how examinations are managed. Additionally, directives have been issued to transfer teachers who have been stationed at the school for over twenty years, amid suspicions that they may have played a role in inciting the students.