Police Intervene as St George’s Girls’ High School Students Stage Night Protest in Nairobi

There was drama in Nairobi on Sunday night when students from St George’s Girls’ High School staged rare night protests against what they described as rampant corporal punishment at the institution.

The demonstrations, which happened under the cover of darkness, forced police officers to intervene after learners poured out of the school compound and marched along the streets near State House.

Many of the students were still dressed in their pyjamas, and video clips seen by Newshub.co.ke captured them chanting and demanding justice.

In the videos, the girls could be heard shouting, “Wanatuchapanga!” (They cane us), while others questioned why they were being punished without clear reasons. “Why are they beating us for no reason? We want justice!” one student lamented as her colleagues joined in the chants.

School Closure Announced

The incident prompted swift action from education and security officials. On Monday morning, during a tense gathering at the institution, the Deputy County Commissioner of Dagoretti North Sub-County, Juma, announced that the school would be closed indefinitely.

The declaration was met with loud cheers from both students and parents who had assembled at the school.

“We have made the decision with the security team and the board that we declare the school closed,” Juma said. “Further communication will follow.”

A senior school administrator also addressed the parents, urging those who still wanted their children to continue learning to consult directly with the school office for guidance.

Students and Parents React

Parents who were present expressed mixed feelings about the closure. Some supported the decision, saying it would allow time for investigations into the students’ grievances, while others worried about the disruption to their daughters’ education.

The students, on their part, appeared relieved, with many cheering and applauding when the announcement was made.

The protest has now brought to light growing concerns over the use of corporal punishment in schools, a practice that has been banned in Kenya but reportedly still occurs in some institutions.

The incident at St George’s Girls’ High School has sparked debate on whether learners are being subjected to outdated disciplinary measures and how schools should handle discipline without violating students’ rights.

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