Learning in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, has been thrown into disarray after authorities ordered the indefinite closure of 29 boarding schools following a series of arson attacks just weeks into the third term.

At least 25 students have been arrested in connection with the incidents, which investigators believe were carefully planned during the recent school holidays.

Education stakeholders are now calling for swift action to prevent further disruptions, especially with national examinations fast approaching.

When Citizen TV visited Mururia Boys’ High School, one of the affected institutions, parents and guardians could be seen trooping in to collect their children.

Similar scenes played out at Ucekeini Girls, Gathiru Boys, and Muhoho Boys, where fires had destroyed critical learning facilities, forcing administrators to shut down operations.

According to preliminary investigations, students are suspected of coordinating the attacks via social media platforms, particularly Instagram. The alleged grievances ranged from complaints over strict frisking rules upon reopening, to tough examination regulations, and even demands to have reporting hours pushed to between noon and 4 p.m.

Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe said the decision to close all boarding schools in the sub-county was reached to prevent further escalation.

Authorities fear the coordinated unrest could spread if not contained immediately.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has since taken over the probe, with the arrested students expected to be arraigned in court on Monday.

A crisis stakeholders’ meeting has also been scheduled to deliberate on long-term solutions.

The shutdown has left many parents deeply concerned.

“We are worried about our children’s safety and education, especially with exams so close,” said Peninah Mburu, a parent at one of the affected schools.

Another parent, Charles Mwangi, echoed the concerns, warning of the financial burden that families will face in rebuilding destroyed infrastructure.