A shocking scenario at Mugwandi Mixed Secondary School in Kirinyaga County has sparked public outrage after a student was found studying alone in a classroom.
In footage seen by Citymirror, the form two student was seen sitting quietly at a desk in the vast classroom, awaiting an English lesson. The student later rang the school bell, a task typically assigned to the timekeeper, underscoring his unique situation as the sole learner in the institution.
The Kirinyaga County Director of Education, Lydiah Mutegi, confirmed the bizarre state of affairs, revealing that the school employs eight teachers despite having only one student.
“It is true. As you can see, there is only one student and eight teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in this school,” Mutegi said.
Leadership Challenges Blamed
Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari attributed the dire state of Mugwandi Mixed Secondary School to delays in appointing a permanent principal. According to Gitari, the absence of stable leadership has prompted parents to transfer their children to other institutions in search of better learning environments.
“We will convene a board meeting at the school to determine the way forward,” the MP assured, stressing the need for urgent intervention.
Some parents shared the MP’s sentiments, while others pointed to the school’s name, Mugwandi—which translates to “downfall” in Kikuyu—as a potential deterrent.
“How can my child thrive in a school with such a name?” questioned Eunice Wambui, a concerned parent.
Public Reactions and Concerns
The unusual situation has triggered debate on social media, with many Kenyans questioning the management of rural schools and the allocation of resources.
“This is a serious issue. Does Mugwandi Mixed Secondary School receive government capitation for just one student who doubles as the head boy, timekeeper, and dining hall prefect?” posed Geoffrey Muturi, a social media influencer.
Others criticized local leaders, calling for better policies to address under-enrollment and improve resource distribution in rural schools.
Systemic Education Challenges
The case has brought into focus broader challenges within Kenya’s education system, particularly in rural areas where schools struggle with under-enrollment and limited parental confidence in their quality.
Efforts to stabilize Mugwandi Mixed Secondary School are expected to be a key priority for education authorities in Kirinyaga County as stakeholders push for reforms to avert similar scenarios in the future.
