The recent wave of school fires across Kenya has reignited a national conversation about discipline, student welfare, and the future of learning institutions.
Yet amid the debate, digital commentator Nimrod Nick has raised a different concern: who is being invited to speak about the crisis?
“Are these YouTubers and podcasters only interested in social media sensations? Because I haven't seen any of them invite a principal or teacher from any school to have a conversation about what is happening in our schools,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when school unrest has once again dominated headlines following several fire incidents reported in learning institutions across the country.
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According to the Kenya Red Cross, at least 37 school fire incidents have been recorded across multiple counties since the beginning of 2026.
A Growing Concern
The debate intensified after the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, where 16 students lost their lives, and dozens more were injured. Investigators later arrested several students as part of the probe into the suspected arson incident.
"Because I haven't seen any of them invite a principal or teacher from any school to have a conversation about what is happening in our schools." — Nimrod Nick.
The tragedy has renewed concerns about the causes of school unrest and whether enough attention is being paid to the experiences of teachers, principals, and education professionals.
“What Times Are We Living In?”
The issue was also discussed on Radio Maisha during the Friday morning Maisha Concert show. Presenters Wycliffe Okumu and Dulmus Sakali questioned the changing relationship between teachers and students.
"Tunaishi nyakati gani hizi ambapo walimu wanafaa kunegotiate na wanafunzi kuhusu mitihani?" they asked.
The statement reflected growing concern among educators and parents who feel that authority structures in schools are increasingly being challenged.
Observers note that conflicts linked to examinations, disciplinary measures, and student grievances have frequently surfaced in past cases of school unrest.
Research and historical records show that many school fires in Kenya have been associated with student protests, examination pressure, and dissatisfaction with school conditions.
Beyond Viral Headlines
Nimrod Nick's comments point to a broader question about modern media. While social media personalities often dominate online discussions, education experts argue that teachers, principals, and counsellors may offer critical insights into the challenges students face daily.
Former education stakeholders have also cited overcrowding, weak enforcement of safety regulations, and inadequate support systems as contributing factors behind recurring school crises.
The Conversation Ahead
As investigations continue and schools strengthen safety measures, the debate is shifting beyond the fires themselves. Increasingly, Kenyans are asking whether public discussions are focusing on symptoms rather than causes.
For many observers, the challenge now is not only to prevent the next fire but also to ensure that the voices closest to the classroom — teachers, principals, parents, and students — are part of the national conversation.
