The National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetang’ula, has proposed mandatory chaplains in all schools under new education reforms following dozens of instances of school unrest witnessed across the country.

Taking to his official X account on Saturday, June 13, 2026, Wetang’ula urged the government and education stakeholders to establish a legal framework requiring every school in Kenya to have a chaplain.

On his part, the National Assembly Speaker cited the need for stronger spiritual and moral guidance amid rising cases of student misconduct, including arson.

“During an Interdenominational church service, special offering, and thanksgiving celebration for SRC Commissioner Hon. Isaac Melly at Kapkuis Primary School in Kapsuswa Ward, Uasin Gishu County, I urged the government and education stakeholders to ensure that every school has a chaplain to provide spiritual guidance to learners,” Wetang’ula stated.

Chaplains will shape morals

Wetang’ula has emphasised the critical role chaplains play in shaping young minds through instilling moral values, discipline and responsible behaviour among students

“I noted that chaplains play a critical role in instilling moral values, discipline and responsible behaviour among students. Through regular engagement with the Word of God and mentorship, our children can grow into upright and responsible citizens who respect life, property, and the rule of law,” he added.

Worrying school unrest trend

At the same time, Wetang’ula expressed deep concern over recent incidents of destructive behaviour by students, particularly arson attacks that have resulted in significant damage to school property and, tragically, loss of lives.

“I expressed concern over incidents where students have engaged in destructive acts such as arson, leading to the damage of school property and, in some cases, loss of lives. Such unfortunate incidents, I said, underscore the need for stronger moral and spiritual guidance in our learning institutions,” Wetang’ula stated.

“I therefore called for a legal framework that would require every school to have a chaplain to support students in their spiritual, moral and personal development, helping them navigate the challenges of growing up and become productive members of society,” he added.

His remarks come in the wake of the suspected arson fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil in May 2026, which claimed the lives of 16 students.

Nine have so far been buried in various parts of the country.