Embu Catholic Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u has joined the nation in mourning the 16 students who died in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County on Thursday, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen discipline and moral responsibility among young people.
Speaking during Holy Trinity Sunday celebrations at St. Stephen Muchonoke Catholic Church in Siakago Parish, Bishop Kimani urged the society to reflect on the conduct of both adults and students in preventing such tragedies.
The bishop said emerging reports indicating that the fire may have been caused by students themselves highlight the need for closer guidance, counselling, and stronger moral grounding in learning institutions.
Bishop Kimani expressed concern over the growing trend of leaders and parents storming schools whenever disputes arise, saying such confrontational actions send the wrong message to children, who often emulate the behaviour of adults.
“Children learn from what they see around them. We must nurture values of respect, discipline and love to prevent such tragedies,” he said.
Nthawa ward MCA Sammy Tito echoed the bishop’s sentiments, calling for accountability and stronger discipline frameworks in schools and homes, saying leaders must not ignore early warning signs of indiscipline among learners.
Tito further urged parents and teachers to work closely in shaping behaviour, warning that failure to instil discipline could lead to preventable tragedies affecting innocent lives.
The remarks come amid heightened public debate over leaders’ conduct in schools following recent incidents in the region.
The bishop also appealed for unity and compassion as the country mourns the loss, praying for healing for the affected families and the school community.
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