Meru Police Launch Mentorship Drive to Promote Discipline in Schools

In a bid to promote discipline and peaceful conduct among learners, police officers in Central Imenti Sub-County, Meru, have launched a mentorship drive to engage students and teachers on ways of addressing challenges in schools.

On Friday, Central Imenti Criminal Investigations Officer Margaret Awino visited Kirigara Girls High School, accompanied by Central Imenti Police Commander Jacob Mutunga and other officers, to donate sanitary towels and hold mentorship sessions with students.

Awino warned learners against participating in strikes, destruction of property, and other forms of indiscipline, saying such actions have serious consequences for both individuals and institutions.

The initiative aims to promote dialogue and peaceful solutions to challenges, rather than resorting to protests or destructive behaviour. Awino cautioned students against negative peer influence, reminding them that discipline and responsibility are key to achieving their goals.

Mutunga warned students that involvement in criminal activities such as burning schools and destroying property could affect their future prospects, affecting their employment and even access to certificates of good conduct.

The police officers said the mentorship programme would continue as part of efforts to prevent school unrest and promote a safer learning environment.

Margaret Awino, a seasoned detective, has been a key figure in Meru's efforts to combat school unrest. She was appointed as Central Imenti Criminal Investigations Officer in 2020, following a series of violent clashes between students and police.

Under Awino's leadership, the police have implemented various initiatives to engage with students and promote peaceful conduct. This latest mentorship drive is a significant step in this effort, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and responsible decision-making.

The initiative has been well-received by students and teachers, who appreciate the police's efforts to address the root causes of unrest. Kirigara Girls High School, one of the schools visited by Awino and her team, has seen a significant reduction in incidents of indiscipline since the mentorship programme began.

The Meru police's initiative serves as a model for other regions struggling with school unrest. By prioritizing dialogue and community engagement, the police have made significant strides in creating a safer learning environment for students.

The programme is set to continue, with Awino and her team working closely with schools and teachers to promote a culture of discipline and responsibility among students.

'Whenever you have concerns, express them respectfully through your class teachers, guidance and counselling department, and the school administration. Every challenge can be addressed, when there is communication, patience, and mutual respect,' Awino advised students.