Caroline Mutoko: We can’t fix school unrest until we understand children
By Paulette Mboga, June 12, 2026Caroline Mutoko has weighed in on the growing concern over school unrest, saying the solution begins with understanding children rather than focusing only on reforms and systems.
Her remarks come as more than 50 schools have reportedly been closed following cases of unrest.
The media personality on Friday, June 12, 2026, argued that discussions about school discipline should place more attention on the needs and experiences of learners. According to her, understanding children at different stages of growth is key to addressing the problem.
“We can’t fix school unrest until we understand children,” Caroline Mutoko said.
She explained that the conversation should focus on young learners, pre-teens and teenagers. Mutoko suggested that many of the answers being sought may be found by paying closer attention to children and their experiences.
“Not reforms. Not systems. Just children — under 8, pre-teens, and teenagers,” she said.
Her comments come at a time when concerns about student discipline and unrest have continued to attract national attention. The closure of more than 50 schools has intensified discussions about the causes of the problem and possible solutions.
Caroline Mutoko’s remarks place the spotlight on learners themselves. She appeared to suggest that efforts to address unrest may not succeed unless children are first understood.
Focus shifts to student experiences
The issue has also attracted comments from other public figures. Among them is radio host Alex Mwakideu, who recently spoke about school unrest and questioned whether students are being fully involved in discussions that affect them.
“We need to have this conversation, okay? Student unrest katika shule imefanyika na tumeona,” Alex Mwakideu said.
Mwakideu noted that authorities have been trying to restore order in schools following several incidents. However, he questioned whether meetings held to address the issue included students and their views.
He also raised concerns about school regulations, saying some rules may be contributing to frustration among learners. According to him, there is a need to examine how students are treated under current policies.
“Mambo ya student unrest in schools, serikali ina try kila kitu kuweza kuleta order,” Alex Mwakideu said.
The remarks by both Caroline Mutoko and Alex Mwakideu have added to the ongoing conversation about unrest in schools.