The Ministry of Education has announced launch of a probe to ascertain circumstances under which five KCPE candidates died on Saturday after drownings in man-made lake near an amusement park.
The students from the school located in Tarakwa, Ainabkoi Sub County drowned while on an educational tour
One Grade 6 student who was part of the five KCPE candidates that died survived and has been admitted at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.
In a statement on Sunday, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu said his Ministry together with that of Interior and Natiomal Administration will ensure thorough and conclusive investigations are conducted into the incident he described as unfortunate.
“Appropriate action will be taken on the basis of the findings of the investigations,” CS Machogu said.
But as investigations continue, the CS has asked affected school, parents and community to remain calm and exercise patience.
He also asked teachers, parents and guardians to avoid exposing learners to risky activities and environments especially during the national examinations season.
The season begins on Monday with KCPE and Grade 6 learners.
“I wish to assure everyone that the Government will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of candidates across the country during the 2023 national examinations season,” the Education CS said in the statement.
Messages of condolences to Arap Moi Primary School
Meanwhile, he has sent his condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the deceased.
The CS also wished quick recovery to the Grade Six candidate who is currently hospitalised following the incident.
Following the tragic incident, parents of the school on Sunday gather for prayers.
The prayers were attended by ccounty’s education officials. Security team were also present.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii on Saturday send his message of condolences also also called for calm among parents and all those affected.
“Our hearts go out to the affected families, and our thoughts and prayers are with the school as well as with the pupils who are currently undergoing treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital,” the Governor said in a post on his verified Facebook page.
“During this difficult time, we call for calm and unity as we come together to support one another through this tragic loss,” he added.
