Matuu Girls High School is facing backlash after its principal allegedly barred three Form Four students who had completed their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams from leaving the school due to unpaid fees.
The students, whose families owe the school Ksh 4,000 each, were reportedly denied exit despite intervention by Machakos County Governor Wavinya Ndeti. Concerned parents who arrived at the school gate to pick up their children claimed they were turned away, with the school administration insisting on full payment of the arrears.
Speaking to Channel 15 News, one parent expressed frustration, stating, “We were assured by the Governor that the arrears would be settled, but the principal refused to release our children even after her intervention.
Governor Ndeti personally visited the school upon learning of the incident and promised to clear the outstanding fees. However, her assurances were disregarded by the school head. Local chiefs who attempted to mediate the situation also met resistance, as the principal maintained her stance.
Efforts by Channel 15 News to reach the school principal for comment were unsuccessful, as phone calls went unanswered.
As of press time, the students remained confined within the school compound, their fate hanging in the balance. This incident has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the school’s adherence to ethical and compassionate practices, especially during the post-exam period.
Authorities are now being urged to intervene and ensure the affected students are released immediately.
