St. George’s Girls Secondary School in Nairobi has been closed indefinitely following violent unrest that erupted after a student reportedly sustained injuries during a confrontation with a teacher.

The disturbances, which reportedly involved over 1,800 students, are said to have begun late Sunday, around 9:30 pm, after a Form Three girl allegedly suffered a jaw injury from a teacher. Reports indicate that the student had left the dormitory to observe the “blood moon” during the full solar eclipse when the alleged assault occurred.

The incident sparked chaos, with students pulling down the school gate and marching onto Dennis Pritt Road. Videos and photos shared online showed the students staging a sit-in and later proceeding to the nearby Royal Media Services offices, chanting against corporal punishment.

Police were called in to quell the unrest, with footage showing officers physically pushing back students as they tried to breach security lines. Parents also arrived at the school overnight, attempting to calm the situation.

By Monday morning, the compound remained tense, with students gathered outside amid a heavy police presence and officials trying to restore order.

Dagoretti North Sub-County Commissioner Juma and Kilimani OCPD Patricia Yegon later confirmed that the government had resolved to send students home.

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

A school administrator also urged parents who wish their children to continue learning to consult the school office.

Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris expressed concern over the closure and its effect on students and families, calling for an immediate investigation.

“I am concerned by the indefinite closure of St. George’s Girls’ Nairobi and the disruption to learners and families. I urge all stakeholders to cooperate with investigations and ensure the safety, dignity and rights of our children are upheld,” Passaris said.

“While every educator deserves training and support to uphold the highest level of professional standards, every child deserves a safe and nurturing learning environment.”

The incident comes amid ongoing debates over corporal punishment in Kenyan schools. Although banned in 2001 under the Children Act and firmly prohibited under the 2010 Constitution, the practice remains relatively common. The Children Act of 2022 removed any remaining legal loopholes, eliminating the “reasonable punishment” defence previously available to parents and teachers.

The deputy county commissioner confirmed that investigations into the events leading to the protests are ongoing, and authorities have promised to communicate further updates. The school’s closure remains indefinite as officials work to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Meanwhile, learning in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, has been disrupted after 29 boarding schools were closed following a wave of arson attacks just weeks into the third term. Authorities have arrested 25 students in connection with the incidents, which preliminary investigations suggest were coordinated during the recent school holidays.