Court Settles Legal Battle Over Kenyan School Fire.
A Nyeri High Court ruling has resolved a dispute over the reopening of Endarasha Hillside Academy following a deadly dormitory fire last September.
The agreement between human rights groups and school officials emerged during a virtual hearing before Justice Magare Kizito on Tuesday. Three lawyers presented the case: Mumbi Kiarie represented education officials, David Kimunya spoke for school owners, and Haggai Chimei advocated for human rights organizations.
The September 2024 fire claimed 21 lives, prompting activists to challenge the school's swift reopening plans. The Kenya Human Rights Commission and other groups filed a petition in October seeking the closure of the boarding facilities, citing safety concerns. The court initially restricted the school's boarding operations but allowed 114 students to attend for national assessments. By December, school leaders had decided to convert the institution into a day school.
Mental health support became a central focus of the settlement for students affected by the tragedy. The Kenya Red Cross partnered with local authorities to provide free counseling services at Mt Kenya Hospital. Justice Magare ordered these sessions moved to the school premises to better serve traumatized students.
"It benefits children to receive counseling on site," Justice Magare stated. "Mental health issues can appear calm on the surface despite underlying struggles."
The final agreement established the school's new operation as a mixed-day facility with regular counseling services continuing on campus. Each party agreed to cover their legal costs. This court decision concludes the legal proceedings that began shortly after the devastating fire, ensuring continued support for affected students under a new operational structure.
A Nyeri High Court ruling has resolved a dispute over the reopening of Endarasha Hillside Academy following a deadly dormitory fire last September.
The agreement between human rights groups and school officials emerged during a virtual hearing before Justice Magare Kizito on Tuesday. Three lawyers presented the case: Mumbi Kiarie represented education officials, David Kimunya spoke for school owners, and Haggai Chimei advocated for human rights organizations.
The September 2024 fire claimed 21 lives, prompting activists to challenge the school's swift reopening plans. The Kenya Human Rights Commission and other groups filed a petition in October seeking the closure of the boarding facilities, citing safety concerns. The court initially restricted the school's boarding operations but allowed 114 students to attend for national assessments. By December, school leaders had decided to convert the institution into a day school.
Mental health support became a central focus of the settlement for students affected by the tragedy. The Kenya Red Cross partnered with local authorities to provide free counseling services at Mt Kenya Hospital. Justice Magare ordered these sessions moved to the school premises to better serve traumatized students.
"It benefits children to receive counseling on site," Justice Magare stated. "Mental health issues can appear calm on the surface despite underlying struggles."
The final agreement established the school's new operation as a mixed-day facility with regular counseling services continuing on campus. Each party agreed to cover their legal costs. This court decision concludes the legal proceedings that began shortly after the devastating fire, ensuring continued support for affected students under a new operational structure.
