PS Mang’eni Returns to Chakol Girls, Urges Discipline and Dialogue in Schools

In the wake of recent incidents of student unrest reported in parts of the country, Now the Principal Secretary for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Susan Mang’eni has urged learners to embrace discipline and dialogue, warning that the rising trend threatens both education and the future of young people.

Mang’eni made the appeal during a heartfelt return to her former school, St. Monica Chakol Girls High School in Teso South, Busia County, where she once studied. The visit carried a personal touch, as she revisited the corridors that shaped her early academic journey and encouraged current students to stay focused on their dreams despite the challenges they may face.

Speaking to students, parents, and teachers, Mang’eni said schools must remain safe, stable spaces where learning thrives and young people are allowed to grow without fear or disruption. She expressed concern that repeated cases of unrest in some schools risk derailing academic progress and putting both learners and school property in danger.

"The incident that happened in Gilgil was horrific and deeply painful. We must condemn that act in the strongest terms. Imagine this: your fellow children are asleep, and someone sets the building on fire and locks the door. And yet some people still talk about children’s rights — what rights are these? When we reach a point where our own children can commit such acts, none of us is safe. Parents, you are not safe with them either. Today it’s a dormitory, tomorrow it could be your own home." ~ PS Susan Mang'eni

She reminded students that education is a powerful tool that can transform lives, urging them to protect the opportunity they have by choosing discipline over destruction and dialogue over confrontation. According to her, many of the challenges faced in schools can be solved through open communication and timely intervention.

"And when it comes to schools, we have structures in place, including the church, which are the sponsors. If you see there is a problem, then go even to the church and speak to the priest, or pastor, or sheikh. Tell them there is a problem so they can come and help you. There must be a way of solving that without injuring the lives of innocent people who may have no idea. Let us involve people. We also have the board." ~ Ps Susan Mang'eni

Mang’eni also called on parents, teachers, and school administrators to work more closely together, saying that students often need stronger guidance and support systems to help them navigate pressures both inside and outside the classroom. She stressed that when concerns are addressed early, they are less likely to escalate into unrest.

"Parents, let us continue to encourage them. Let us continue to advise them. Keep telling them to work hard and do well because they are your investment. Any investment you make in education never goes to waste."~ PS Susan Mang'eni

Her sentiments were warmly echoed by Busia County education officials, including the County Director of Education, as well as Busia County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, who joined her at the event. They, too, expressed concern over the rising cases of school unrest and urged learners to remain calm, focused, and respectful of school rules.

The officials emphasized that peace in schools is not only about maintaining order but also about protecting the dreams and aspirations of students. They encouraged learners to speak out through proper channels whenever they face challenges instead of resorting to actions that could jeopardize their education.

For many at St. Monica Chakol Girls, Mang’eni’s visit was more than an official engagement—it was a reminder from one of their own that success is built on patience, discipline, and making the right choices even in difficult moments.

Her message comes as education stakeholders continue to call for stronger mentorship, better communication in schools, and closer collaboration between government, families, and institutions to address the root causes of student unrest across the country.