Learning at Masii Boys High School in Mwala, Machakos County, has been disrupted after students allegedly attempted to torch a dormitory, forcing the administration to send some learners home.

Authorities said the incidents, reported several times this week, raised security concerns and prompted the release of Form Two, Three and Four students on Friday to avert a potential crisis.

Mwala Deputy County Commissioner David Tegutwa confirmed the disruption, saying the boys demanded to go home for what they termed as “half-term.”

“What could make the students suddenly not ready to learn barely three weeks into the term?” Tegutwa posed, questioning the motive behind the unrest.

The students have been sent home indefinitely as investigations continue. Education officials are expected to decide when learning will resume.

Elsewhere in neighbouring Makueni County, a fire destroyed a dormitory at Mbooni Boys High School on Friday morning, reducing students’ belongings to ashes. No casualties were reported.

Firefighters from the Makueni County Government, with support from the Kenya Red Cross, managed to contain the blaze and assist affected students.

The two incidents have heightened concerns over student unrest and safety in boarding schools across the region.