A school trip meant to create lasting memories has ended in heartbreak for a Nairobi family following the tragic death of Victor Ndundu Karanja, a student at Kirawa Road School in Kitusuru.
Victor reportedly died on Wednesday, November 4, while on a school trip in Tanzania, with preliminary reports suggesting that he drowned during a swimming expedition.
Kenyans mourn Victor Ndundu Karanja
His death has left his family devastated, with questions emerging about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The young student was the stepson of Gitaru Ward MCA Jane Thogori and hailed from Kibiku, near the police station.
News of his death has sparked calls for transparency, with concerns being raised about the information available to his family as they travel to Tanzania to establish what happened to their son.
A statement shared following the tragedy called upon the school management to provide the bereaved family with a comprehensive account of the events leading to Victor’s death.
Family demands answers from Kirawa Road School
According to the statement, the family was travelling to Tanzania amid limited information about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
They are seeking answers on what happened during the excursion, including the events leading up to the reported drowning and the response by those accompanying the learners.
The calls for answers have also extended to the need for full institutional support as the family navigates the difficult process of dealing with the tragedy in a foreign country.
The Ministry of Education and the Kenyan High Commission in Tanzania have also been urged to urgently intervene and assist Victor’s family.
Why Ministry of Education should intervene
Their involvement will help the family obtain information, navigate the necessary procedures in Tanzania and receive the support required following the devastating loss.
The circumstances surrounding the reported drowning remain unclear, and the school management is expected to address the concerns raised by the bereaved family.
Victor’s death has renewed concerns about learner safety during school excursions, particularly activities involving potentially hazardous recreational experiences.
While the family’s immediate priority is understanding what happened to their son, the calls for accountability underscore the responsibility of institutions to provide appropriate supervision and safety measures during school trips.
Losing a child is an immeasurable tragedy, and having to seek answers while dealing with such devastating news only makes the experience more difficult.
As the family mourns Victor, they are appealing for transparency, compassion and support from everyone involved.
May his soul rest in peace.
