Hundreds of boys in Tiaty, Baringo County, are still out of school weeks after the first term began. This is because they are undergoing seclusion following circumcision ceremonies that took place during the festive season.
The prolonged absence is causing concern among teachers, parents, and local authorities, who warn that learning is being seriously disrupted.
Schools affected include Kreze, Sukut, Katagh, Ptikii, Ng’oron, Korelach, Nalekat, Donyasas, Nakoko, Lorwatum, Cheseret, Domo, Chesirimion, Riong’o, Naudo, Akwichatis, and Nasorot.
Teachers report that in some schools, several boys have not returned, particularly in higher grades where missing lessons makes it harder to catch up.
At Domo Primary School in the newly created Kolowa Sub-County, head teacher Charles Chesire said that 15 boys from grades four to nine are still away. “We have been informed that these boys went through circumcision during the holidays and are now in seclusion.
We do not know when they will come back,” he said. According to Pokot tradition, boys are expected to remain in seclusion for more than three months after circumcision.
Head teachers are calling on local authorities and parents to ensure that such ceremonies are carried out during school holidays. “It is very disappointing that children are missing school because of cultural practices,” said Mr. Chesire.
“We need to find a way to respect culture while keeping our children in school.”
At Donyasas Primary School in Tiaty Central, nine boys, mostly in grades four to ten, have not returned to class. Head teacher Mathew Chesire expressed concern that some students may drop out if seclusion continues.
“We hope the chiefs and local leaders will follow up and make sure all learners return to school,” he said.
Korelach Primary School is also facing low attendance. Out of more than 120 learners, only 88 have reported.
Head teacher Cliophas Lotuliangiro said he plans to meet with parents, chiefs, and the school committee to educate the community on the importance of education. “In remote areas, traditional practices are still strong, and many parents may not understand why school is important,” he said.
Elder Yuda Losutan explained that traditionally, circumcision ceremonies lasted three to four months and were only for boys aged 16 and above. “Nowadays, even boys below ten are initiated, which interrupts their education,” he said.
He urged parents to consider conducting these ceremonies during school holidays to avoid keeping children away from learning. He added that school dropouts in pastoralist communities often lead to social problems such as cattle rustling and banditry.
Authorities are working to ensure that students return to school. Tiaty Central Deputy County Commissioner Aaron Omaset said he is visiting schools to check on learners who have not reported. “We are doing a mop-up in the villages to make sure all children, including those in seclusion, are back in school,” he said.
In Kolowa Sub-County, Deputy County Commissioner Edward Karanja confirmed that all 21 seclusion centers have been closed after the festive season.
He said detailed enrollment data will be gathered during an education stakeholders’ meeting to ensure no learner remains out of school.
Community leaders emphasize that while cultural practices are important, they should not interfere with education.
Elder Losutan said modern life has changed the timing and age of initiation, and communities must find a balance. “Culture is important, but children must go to school. Otherwise, the social cost will be very high,” he warned.
Education officials and community leaders now face the challenge of ensuring that cultural rites and schooling coexist.
Sensitizing parents and scheduling initiation ceremonies during school breaks could prevent further disruption and help keep children in the classroom.
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