Isaac Mwaura explains why abolishing boarding schools is not solution to unrest
By Faith Lagat, June 9, 2026Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has firmly rejected proposals to abolish boarding schools as a response to ongoing unrest in Kenyan secondary schools, instead calling for a national conversation on parenting, discipline, and morality.
Speaking during a press briefing on June 9, 2026, he said the crisis reflects broader societal challenges that cannot be solved through school structural changes alone.
“There is a debate whether to have schools closed, the others who are saying let’s do away with the boarding school, but honestly, as a nation, we have a challenge, and I think we need to address it. “Abolishing boarding schools is not a solution; we need to have an honest conversation on discipline,” Mwaura said.
Parenting responsibility and discipline concerns
Mwaura urged parents to reflect on their role in shaping discipline among learners. “Maybe we as parents need to ask ourselves the question, are we parenting properly? What is lacking?” he stated.
He cited a school visit where Grade 10 learners reportedly requested improved communication with their parents, describing it as a shift in behaviour compared to previous generations.
He added that discipline in schools has weakened as parenting responsibilities increasingly shift to teachers. Referencing Proverbs 13:24, he said: “spare the rod and spoil the child… he who disciplines their child because they love them,” adding that many parents are occupied with economic responsibilities, leaving limited time for guidance at home.
Wider social issues and national unrest context
Mwaura said the crisis extends beyond schools, calling for difficult discussions on morality and social behaviour. “We have to speak about issues of morality. You know we have to speak about issues of homosexuality and lesbianism in schools,” he said.
He also cited incidents of violence in society, including cases involving young people and university students, warning of a decline in humanity.
His remarks come as several schools, including Mang’u High, Alliance High, Naivasha Girls, Loreto Girls Limuru, Mukumu Girls, and Kisii School, were disrupted following unrest, fires, and security concerns in June 2026. The Ministry of Education has stated that fewer than 1 per cent of schools are affected.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti also urged stronger parental involvement, while education officials have pointed to exam pressure, social media influence, and overcrowding as contributing factors.
Mwaura maintained that abolishing boarding schools is not a solution, emphasising collective responsibility in addressing the crisis.