Concerns have emerged over alleged bullying incidents targeting newly admitted Grade 10 students at Lenana School, a national boys’ school in Nairobi, barely weeks after reporting for Form One.
The issue was brought to public attention by Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai, who shared a message from a distressed parent describing what they termed as widespread and violent bullying by senior students, particularly Form Fours.
According to the parent, the alleged abuse involves seniors beating Form Ones with belts in various parts of the school, including dormitories, classrooms, the dining hall, and playing fields.
The parent claimed that some students have already sought transfers despite having been in school for only two weeks, citing trauma and fear.
The message further alleges that the matter has been reported to the school administration, but efforts to curb the situation have so far faced challenges.
“Pain should not be inflicted on children from morning to evening. This is almost assault,” the parent wrote, adding that even some student leaders were allegedly involved or had failed to stop the abuse.
The concerns also point to growing unease among students in certain dormitories, with claims that some senior students are taking out their frustrations on the new intake following recent changes in the education system and school environment.
Lenana School, which has a long-standing reputation as one of Kenya’s top national schools, has not publicly responded to the allegations as of the time of publication.
However, the claims have reignited debate on bullying in Kenyan secondary schools, especially during the transition period for new students.
Cases of bullying have previously drawn attention from the Ministry of Education, with officials repeatedly warning school administrations against tolerating violence and abuse under any form of “discipline” or tradition.
Parents and education stakeholders are now calling for swift investigations and firm action to ensure the safety and well-being of students, particularly minors adjusting to secondary school life.
The situation at Lenana School is expected to attract closer scrutiny from education authorities in the coming days.