ALEGO USONGA: A peaceful start to the new term at St. Stephen’s Usingo Secondary School was shattered yesterday as students staged a major demonstration, leading to the temporary closure of the institution.

Learners returning from the August holiday refused to enter classrooms, instead blocking the school’s main gate to protest against their principal, Jacob Owiti, whom they accuse of mismanagement.

The students, who chanted slogans and carried placards, raised a litany of grievances.

At the heart of their frustration were concerns over the poor diet provided at the school, erratic teacher transfers that disrupted their lessons, and inadequate sanitation facilities.

They also spoke out against alleged harassment and the school’s policy of frequently sending home students over unpaid fees, which they say undermines their right to a consistent education.

Initial efforts by parents and local authorities, including the area Assistant Chief, to calm the situation proved futile as the students stood their ground.

It was only after the intervention of the school’s Board of Management Chairman, Dr Peter Omoth, that a breakthrough was achieved.

Dr Omoth engaged the learners in a candid dialogue, attentively listening to their concerns. In a show of good faith, the students agreed to stand down and allow the board to investigate the issues.

Speaking to the media shortly after the engagement, Dr Omoth confirmed that the students would be sent home until Friday.

This decision, he explained, was a necessary step to give the Board time to consult with the Ministry of Education and forge a clear path forward.

The unexpected closure highlights the growing tension between students and school administration, and the community now awaits the outcome of the board’s discussions.