A memorial mass service for the 21 victims of the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire is set for next week, prior to the bodies being returned to their families for burial. The service will take place at Mweiga Stadium in Nyeri and is being organized collaboratively by national and county authorities, along with family members and church leaders.
Nyeri’s acting regional commissioner, Pius Murugu, stated that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is expected to finalize their investigation early next week to allow the memorial service to proceed. “By next week, we should be able to finalize the burial arrangements and discuss the school’s reopening in consultation with the administration, parents, and other stakeholders,” Murugu said.
The investigation into the tragic fire, which occurred on the night of September 5, has been concluded, with various individuals questioned, as the school had been designated a crime scene. The DCI is leading the inquiry, and a preliminary report is anticipated later this week before the school’s planned reopening.
Two male students who survived the incident are still recovering in the hospital. Murugu also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the affected families and students who lost personal belongings.
David Kinyua, the school’s owner and director, announced plans to reduce the number of boarders from 330 to 195 to create more space. “We do not have enough room for all the boarders, so those living nearby will become day scholars to accommodate fewer students,” he explained. Currently, there are 87 boys and 98 girls set to remain as boarders, while others will attend as day scholars.
Kinyua expressed his sorrow over the tragedy that claimed the lives of 21 students and mentioned that parents and education officials have been invited for a meeting and prayer service. “We have received permission to start repairs, and we are working to make changes to the dormitory and paths leading to the area affected by the fire to prevent trauma,” he added.
In related news, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba is scheduled to appear before the National Assembly today to address concerns regarding incidents of school fires, unrest, and the overall safety of students. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula emphasized the need for a comprehensive briefing on this tragic event, highlighting the importance of understanding its causes and proposed remedial measures. He will also provide a progress report on the commitments made during the Kamukunji meeting on August 20, 2024, regarding the New Higher Education Funding Model.
