By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Universities Student Leaders Association (USLA) has urged the government, education stakeholders and political leaders to prioritize learner safety following a series of school fire incidents in the country.
They expressed concern that the incidents have resulted in deaths, destruction of property and disruption of learning across the country, and no lasting solution has been found.
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In a statement issued on Monday, the student leaders’ body expressed concern over the growing number of school fires, saying the incidents point to deeper challenges within Kenya’s education system, including gaps in student welfare, mental health support and institutional preparedness.
USLA conveyed its condolences to families and communities affected by the tragedies, noting that the loss of young lives in learning institutions is a national concern that demands urgent action.
“No parent should have to bury a child whose only mission was to attend school and pursue an education,” the association said.
“We stand with all affected families during this painful period and pray for healing, comfort, and strength.”
The association warned that while the closure of schools following fire incidents may be necessary in some cases, it disrupts learning, affects academic performance and increases anxiety among learners.
“As a nation, we must acknowledge that every school fire represents more than the destruction of buildings. It is a signal that demands deeper reflection on the state of our education system, student welfare structures, mental health support mechanisms, leadership engagement, and institutional preparedness,” the statement said.
USLA called on the Government of Kenya, Parliament, county governments, parents, religious organizations, civil society groups and political leaders from both government and opposition to unite in protecting learners.
“The education of our children must be a unifying national agenda,” the association stated.
To address the challenge, USLA proposed the establishment of a National Student Safety and Well-being Framework that would integrate safety measures, mental health support, student welfare and emergency preparedness across learning institutions.
The association also advocated increased investment in guidance and counseling services, stronger student representation structures, modernization of school safety infrastructure and expansion of mentorship programs.
The student leaders further urged schools to conduct regular fire safety audits, improve dormitory safety standards and hold routine emergency response drills to reduce risks associated with fires and other emergencies.
Addressing learners directly, USLA appealed for peaceful resolution of grievances and responsible leadership.
“Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed through acts of destruction, violence, or despair. Schools are not merely buildings; they are gateways to opportunity, leadership, innovation, and national transformation,” the association said.
USLA also pledged to support efforts aimed at improving student welfare through mentorship programs, career guidance forums, leadership development initiatives, peer counseling advocacy and youth empowerment programs.
The association emphasized that long-term solutions, collaboration and collective responsibility are needed to safeguard learners and strengthen Kenya’s education system.
“This moment calls for action rather than blame, collaboration rather than division, and long-term solutions rather than temporary reactions,” the statement said.
