Lodwar- January 29, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The County Department for Education, Sports, and Social Protection is working with Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centres to fully comply with school safety and sanitation standards.

The department has asked the ECDE centres to align with ongoing national efforts to enforce safety measures in learning institutions, following recent fatal fire incidents that have raised concerns about the well-being of learners in especially boarding schools.

During an inspection visit to St. Mary’s ECDE Centre, the Chief Officer for Education and Social Protection, Paul Lodunga emphasized that the department will conduct assessments across all ECDE centres to evaluate compliance and identify areas requiring corrective action.

“Our goal is to create secure learning environments where young learners can thrive and teachers can effectively serve them. Therefore, schools must ensure full adherence to the prescribed safety and sanitation standards,” CCO Lodunga stated.

The visit also engaged members of the school management committee, parents, and teachers in discussions on collectively implementing the required safety measures.

The Chief Officer added that while children are the primary beneficiaries of improved safety protocols, the entire community stands to gain from a well-regulated learning environment.

Authorities have urged school administrations to prioritize preventive measures, including fire safety drills, proper waste disposal, and infrastructural improvements to mitigate risks.

The county government has pledged to provide guidance and support to schools in meeting the safety requirements, ensuring that all learning institutions offer a secure space for children’s education and development.