Tragedy in Nyeri: Fire Claims 17 Pupils at Hillside Endarasha Academy

A devastating fire broke out at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri, claiming the lives of 17 pupils. The fire, which engulfed one of the dormitories, left many families mourning and sparked discussions about the adequacy of safety measures in schools. In addition to the 17 who perished, several other students were rushed to nearby hospitals with severe burns, while others managed to escape the inferno with minor injuries.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, though preliminary reports suggest that it may have started late at night while the pupils were sleeping. Emergency services responded swiftly, but the intensity of the fire made it difficult to contain in time. Authorities, including the National Police Service, have been on-site to assess the situation and provide assistance to affected families

This tragic incident has reignited conversations around the need for improved fire safety protocols in Kenyan schools. Many are questioning whether enough is being done to prevent such disasters, calling for stricter regulations and better emergency preparedness in schools across the country. As the nation mourns the loss of these young lives, the focus is shifting to what can be done to ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again.

The fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy is a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring student safety, particularly in boarding schools, where students are often vulnerable in confined dormitory spaces.