Multiple Slaps by Ministry Official Send KCSE Candidate to Hospital

A student at Sironga Girls High School in Nyamira County collapsed on Tuesday after being slapped multiple times by an education official.

The incident occurred during a routine inspection when Beatrice Kendi, a quality assurance officer, entered the examination room at approximately 9 a.m. According to police reports, Kendi noticed the student chewing something she deemed suspicious. Upon confronting the student, Kendi allegedly administered multiple slaps during the interrogation, though no unauthorized materials were discovered in the student's possession. Throughout the remainder of the examination period, the student exhibited signs of distress.

As the session concluded around 10 a.m., she lost consciousness and required immediate medical attention at the school dispensary. Following initial treatment, she was transferred to a hospital for more comprehensive care and observation. Police and education officials have conducted site visits to gather information with their preliminary findings confirming that the confrontation stemmed from a Ministry official's suspicion regarding unauthorized examination materials.

In response to the severity of the allegations, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has initiated a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the student's collapse and the Ministry official's conduct. The investigation will encompass evidence collection, including witness statements and medical documentation. This distressing event follows another recent tragedy at Sironga Girls High School, where a Form Four student succumbed to injuries after jumping from a second-floor hostel.

The ongoing investigation carries significant implications for establishing accountability and addressing the broader concerns about student welfare. It underscores the critical need for the education sector to maintain a delicate balance between examination integrity and student well-being, ensuring that disciplinary measures never compromise the safety and dignity of learners.