Tensions Rise as Utumishi Girls’ Academy Parents Reject Reopening After Tragedy

By Fareed Mohammed
Gilgil, Kenya

A standoff has emerged between the management of Utumishi Girls’ Academy and the parents of its students, just weeks after a devastating dormitory fire claimed the lives of 16 learners and left 79 others injured.

The conflict escalated after the school principal issued a directive instructing parents to prepare their daughters for a staggered resumption of learning. According to the notice, Form Four students were expected to report back on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, followed by Grade 10 and Form Three students later in the week. The administration requested that students return with their standard personal effects, blankets, and payment for school uniform fees.

However, the notice sparked immediate outrage among parents, who argue that the administration is focusing on administrative logistics while neglecting the deep emotional trauma caused by the tragedy. In a joint letter addressed to the school principal and the Nakuru County Director of Education, the parents said they would not accept a “business as usual” approach.

“You cannot manage a crisis of this magnitude with cold logistics,” the parents’ statement read.

To ensure the safety of their children, the parents have issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding that the reopening be suspended until four key conditions are met:

• A full, independent review of all remaining dormitories and school facilities to ensure full compliance with national fire safety standards.
• The immediate provision of professional psychosocial counselling and trauma support for all returning students.
• Full transparency regarding the institutional failures that may have contributed to the disaster, including previous reports of overcrowding and locked emergency exits.
• A clear and comprehensive emergency response plan outlining how the institution will handle future emergencies.

While the Ministry of Education has expressed its desire to resume classes to ensure students do not fall behind academically, parents insist that their children’s physical safety and emotional well-being must take priority.