Senator says rising indiscipline, strikes and destruction of school property require stronger measures to restore order in learning institutions.
NAIROBI, Kenya– Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has announced plans to introduce a Bill seeking to bring back corporal punishment in Kenyan schools, arguing that teachers need stronger disciplinary tools to address rising cases of student unrest, indiscipline and destruction of school property.
Speaking during a public gathering on June 20, Khalwale said he had already drafted legislation that would amend existing education laws and allow teachers to administer corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure in learning institutions.
The senator argued that previous laws removed important disciplinary powers from teachers, leaving schools struggling to manage learner misconduct.
“I have already drafted a Bill seeking to amend education laws and reinstate disciplinary measures that were scrapped by previous Parliaments, so that students who misbehave can be caned,” Khalwale said.
He further stated that parents who oppose such disciplinary measures would have the option of taking responsibility for their children’s behaviour.
“If you do not want a teacher to cane your child, then come and take them home so that other learners can continue with their studies,” he added.
Debate Over School Discipline
The proposed Bill comes amid growing concerns over student discipline in Kenyan schools, following reports of unrest, strikes, destruction of school property and cases of arson that have disrupted learning programmes.
Khalwale maintains that restoring corporal punishment would help teachers enforce discipline and create a more controlled learning environment.
However, corporal punishment remains prohibited under Kenya’s current legal framework, including the Children’s Act 2022 and the Basic Education Act 2013, which require schools to use alternative disciplinary approaches.
Teachers found administering corporal punishment may face disciplinary action, including sanctions by the Teachers Service Commission and possible legal consequences.
Proposed Education Reforms
The senator’s proposal comes amid wider discussions on reforms within the education sector, with stakeholders exploring ways to address school unrest and improve learner management.
Other proposals being discussed include:
- Review of the current second-term academic calendar.
- Introduction of additional mid-term breaks.
- Strengthening school discipline policies.
- Review of laws governing learner conduct and school administration.
If tabled in Parliament, Khalwale’s Bill will undergo the legislative process, including debate, committee review, public participation and voting before any proposed changes can become law.
