The Ministry of Education has ordered the indefinite closure of Bungoma National Polytechnic after violent demonstrations erupted, making it the second higher learning institution to be shut in just one week.
Students took to the streets on Tuesday, protesting against the institution’s management, with tensions quickly escalating into chaos. While addressing the press on Wednesday, Dr. Rosebella Chukwu, the Principal of the polytechnic, stated, “With the directive of the Ministry, I have been asked to close the school indefinitely.”
What started as a peaceful demonstration turned deadly after clashes with police left one student dead. The students, who were joined by some staff members, were demanding the immediate dismissal of the principal, accusing her of mismanagement and embezzlement.
The protests saw angry students destroy property, including department offices, before marching through Kanduyi Town, seeking the intervention of their area MP, John Makali.
The Ministry of Education wasted no time in intervening, issuing an immediate closure order on Wednesday, October 9. Chukwu, the institution’s principal, confirmed the decision, stating that learning activities would remain suspended until further notice.
“Dear Bungoma National Polytechnic students. This is to inform you that the college has been closed until further notice. This comes after students’ unrest in the institution. All classes and activities are suspended too. Please stay safe and stay alert,” read a notice.
The trigger for the violent protests was the fatal shooting of a female student during the chaotic standoff with police. The tragic incident unfolded after law enforcement attempted to disperse the protesters with tear gas.
However, the students refused to back down, and tensions escalated to the point where police responded with force, resulting in the student’s death. The disturbing scenes have been widely shared across social media platforms, with footage showing students hoisting placards and chanting for the principal’s removal.
Outside the MP’s office, students demanded answers and justice for their fallen comrade. Officials at the Kanduyi Constituency offices addressed the crowd, pledging to escalate their concerns to the MP. Despite the assurances, the atmosphere remained charged, with emotions running high among the protesters.
The closure of Bungoma National Polytechnic mirrors the unrest seen at Moi University, which also shut its doors following similar student protests over mismanagement. The increasing frequency of such incidents points to growing dissatisfaction within Kenya’s higher learning institutions, particularly around governance and leadership.
Source: kENYANS.CO.KE