Reports of school closures in Mandera following clashes between Jubaland and Somalia’s federal forces have been dismissed by education officials, who insist learning is ongoing and students and teachers remain safe.
Speaking to KMB Media , Hussein Mohammed Secretary General of Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT ) Mandera county stated that while clashes occurred near the border during the holiday period, schools reopened without disruption.
“As of now, the learners and the teachers are in safe hands. Border Point One Primary School, which is closest to the border and was feared most at risk, opened safely, and classes are going on normally,” he said.
Mohammed added that security personnel are frequently visiting schools to reassure staff and learners.
“There are also security people placed at the school so that in case of any issue or fear arises, the teachers and children will be taken care of. The compound is safe for both learners and the community around it,” he said.
Mandera Senator Ali Roba had earlier raised alarm, claiming schools were disrupted and families displaced due to the presence of Jubaland troops in the town. But education officials now say the disruption was only momentary.
“That very day when schools opened, there was fear, but once security personnel and the Ministry of Education intervened, learning resumed normally. As we speak, teachers are safe, and learners are studying well,” the official confirmed.
He also dismissed allegations that Jubaland forces were using Border Point One Primary School as a training ground.
“That allegation is totally false. The school compound is occupied by learners, and even the surrounding community continues to live there. If it were being used for military training, people would have fled,” he said.
Mohammed urged against what he termed as “sensationalizing” the situation, emphasizing that learning in Mandera is proceeding without interruption.
