A high school student has taken the initiative to petition Parliament to create a law allowing students to express themselves through their hairstyles at school.
During a meeting with headteachers in Mombasa, Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap shared this inspiring news. He commended the student for demonstrating more courage and determination than some senior school leaders who have not stepped forward to advocate for change.
“Currently, we have a petition from a student before our committee, requesting legislation that supports diverse hairstyles in schools, including dreadlocks and more,” Makilap mentioned on Thursday at the 49th Kenya Senior School Heads Association annual national conference.
He emphasized that this petition is actively under consideration, while urging principals to take similar action. Makilap, who serves on the National Assembly’s Education Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the student’s proactive approach, contrasting it with the hesitance he observed among the school heads.
“The important question is, what will you bring to the table after this 49th Kessha conference? What decisions will you propose to the education committee that could influence policy changes and funding in our schools?” he challenged the principals.
He assured them of his commitment to listen and advocate for their needs within the committee.
“Take this opportunity, Kuppet, Knut, Kusnet, and principals—petition Parliament on crucial issues regarding funding and policy direction. Your voices matter, and we need to hear from you,” he urged.
He highlighted the committee’s vital role in overseeing funding and educational standards, stating, “This committee is your ally in addressing your challenges.”
Makilap acknowledged the principals’ proposal for an increase in school fees, describing it as a constructive suggestion that warrants further discussion. Kessha chairman Willie Mwangi previously called for a review of the school fee structure, noting that the current fees, established 11 years ago in 2015, have not kept pace with rising commodity prices and inflation, making it increasingly difficult to manage schools effectively.
