Trans Nzoia Governor Natembeya Links Exam Pressure to Rising School Unrest
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has urged the government to address the root causes of increasing school unrest, arguing that pressure from examinations may be contributing to student frustration and destructive behavior.
Governor Natembeya links exam pressure to rising cases of school unrest and dormitory fires. Photo/ Courtesy
By Anneth Chepngetich
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, asked the government and the various education stakeholders to look at the real reasons behind this situation, before it becomes worse. He said the causes behind both the unrest, and the recurring fires, are not just isolated issues but can be traced to bigger problems.
Speaking from his office on Saturday, Natembeya, suggested that the pressure that usually comes with examinations might be playing a part in the growing cases of student unrest. He pointed to how the heavy focus on mock exams, has been stressing students a lot.
“ The heavy emphasis placed on mock examinations has subjected students to immense pressure, causing some to express their frustrations through destructive behaviour,” said Natembeya, adding that the outcomes are showing in behaviour inside schools.
He urged education authorities to re-check what could be placing too much academic burden on learners, and to also think about steps that support students’ well being, not only academic results.
Natembeya also brought up the implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. He noted that many teachers were trained under the old 8-4-4 model, and may need extra preparation, so they can actually deliver the new curriculum in a proper way.
“ Many teachers were trained under the 8-4-4 system. Continuous retraining is necessary to equip them with the skills needed to effectively implement the Competency-Based Education curriculum and improve learning outcomes,” he said.
The governor further called for the confirmation of teachers who are serving on internship terms, into permanent and pensionable posts. He argued that long periods of uncertainty affect morale, and also lower productivity.
“ Teachers play a critical role in shaping the future of our children. Extended internship periods can be discouraging, and should be addressed to improve motivation within the profession,” he added, as he made the case.
Natembeya appealed to the government, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders to work jointly, because tackling the issues affecting both learners and educators, will require cooperation from everyone.
“ We must come together to create a supportive learning environment that addresses the needs of students and teachers while promoting discipline, quality education and academic success,” he said.
His remarks, came at a time when there are more growing worries over student unrest in schools. Education leaders have been calling for reforms, aimed at improving student welfare, and also strengthening the education system overall.
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