NAIROBI, Kenya— The Elimu Bora Working Group has called for the immediate reinstatement of the EduAfya medical insurance scheme, citing a worrying increase in preventable deaths among school learners.
The advocacy group says recent fatalities in schools reveal critical gaps in emergency response, supervision, and safety enforcement.
It is also pushing for independent and transparent investigations into the deaths, with accountability measures for cases of negligence.
“Even after the tragic fire at Endarasha in 2024, which exposed serious failures in compliance and oversight, it is evident that lessons were not learnt,” said Griffin Ombogo, a member of the group.
Boaz Ruku, another member, stressed the need for each boarding school to have a nurse, clinical officer, or medic, noting that currently such measures are largely restricted to C1 schools.
Stakeholders argue that relying on parents’ Social Health Authority (SHA) coverage is insufficient, as delays in emergency treatment can be fatal.
“The government previously covered medical costs, including transfers, airlifts, and ambulances. SHA coverage has failed to meet this responsibility, leaving many learners at risk,” said David Karani.
Stakeholders also recommended mandatory, ongoing training for teachers and school heads in first aid, basic life support, emergency response, risk assessment during co-curricular activities, and crisis management.
The group further urged the establishment of an Education Standards and Quality Assurance Council to strictly enforce safety regulations and compliance in schools, aiming to prevent further tragedies and strengthen institutional preparedness.
