Concern has emerged after a Grade 10 student, Saira Ramadhan, withdrew from St Mary’s Lwak High School following a dispute over her right to wear a hijab. The case has reignited debate on religious freedom and inclusivity in Kenyan schools.
Saira, who had joined the national school on January 13, 2026, said she was initially admitted while wearing the hijab. However, she later faced pressure to remove it, a demand that caused distress and confusion for the learner and her family. Speaking emotionally, the student explained that the situation escalated after disagreements arose regarding the school’s dress expectations for Muslim students.
According to Saira, the matter intensified when she was questioned about the hijab and other Muslim girls were consulted. Some reportedly noted that the head covering is essential for prayer, deepening the standoff. The student said she informed her father about the issue, and he promised to engage the school administration in search of a solution.
The learner also claimed she felt compelled to attend Catholic Mass, a concern that has further fueled public discussion about freedom of worship within learning institutions. Her withdrawal from the school, barely weeks after admission, has drawn criticism from parents, education stakeholders and members of the public who argue that schools must respect constitutional protections on religious expression.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for clearer policies that balance school uniform rules with students’ faith rights. Education advocates say inclusive environments are critical to ensuring learners from diverse backgrounds feel safe and respected.
In a related development, nominated MP Umulkher Harun Mohammed shared her own past experience of alleged discrimination over wearing a hijab in school. She said such incidents can harm students’ confidence and force some to abandon opportunities in top institutions, underscoring the need for reforms that uphold dignity and religious freedom in Kenya’s education system.
