A coffin business set up just outside the gate of St. Monica Special School for Mentally Challenged Children in Embu has sparked concern among educators and the community.
The school’s principal, Stephen King’ori, expressed shock and dismay over the establishment of the coffin workshop near the institution, which caters to 140 learners with mental challenges.
He warned that the sight of coffins could severely traumatize the vulnerable pupils.
King’ori said he immediately reported the matter to his superiors at the Embu County Education Office in a bid to halt the venture. “The presence of coffins so close to our learners is not only insensitive but could cause psychological harm,” he stated.
However, in a bizarre twist, unknown individuals reportedly invaded the premises and demolished it shortly after the principal raised the alarm. It remains unclear who was behind the demolition.
In a separate address, King’ori highlighted that the learners at the institution are also enrolled under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
However, unlike other schools that use age-based progression, St. Monica employs a stage-based model tailored to the learners’ understanding and abilities.
“This model allows our pupils to progress at their own pace, ensuring they fully grasp concepts before moving forward,” King’ori explained.
He also called on education stakeholders to channel more resources into special needs institutions, noting that increased funding would enhance learning facilities and ensure students with disabilities receive quality education.
