A Parents’ Guide Against Corporal Punishment in Schools

Protecting Our Children:

1. Why This Matters

Schools are meant to be safe spaces for children. But some teachers and schools still beat children, even though the law in Kenya bans corporal punishment. This is not only wrong but also illegal. Parents have the right to speak up and take action when their children are mistreated.

---

2. What the Law Says

• Children Act, 2001 (Section 18): No child should suffer torture, cruel, or degrading treatment.
• Basic Education Act, 2013 (Section 36): Corporal punishment in schools is banned.
• Constitution of Kenya, 2010 (Article 53): Every child has the right to dignity, education, and protection from abuse.

👉 In simple terms: Beating children in schools is against the law.

---

3. Why Beating Children is Harmful

• It causes physical injuries.
• It leaves children with fear and trauma.
• It destroys trust between children, parents, and teachers.
• It does not solve discipline problems.

There are better ways to guide children, such as counseling, mentorship, and positive discipline.

---

4. What Parents Can Do

If your child is beaten or abused in school:

1. Gather Evidence
   • Take photos of injuries (if any).
   • Get a doctor’s note or medical report.
   • Keep written notes of what happened (dates, names, witnesses).
2. Report the Case
   • To the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
   • To the Ministry of Education (through the County Director of Education).
   • To the police, if serious assault has occurred.
3. Seek Legal Help
   • Parents can join together to file a petition or complaint against the school.
   • Organizations like the Kenya Association of Intellects (KAI) and other child rights groups can help represent families.

---

5. What We Are Asking For

Parents and students are coming together to demand:

• An end to corporal punishment in schools.
• Strict enforcement of the law by the Ministry of Education and TSC.
• Clear reporting channels for parents and children.
• Accountability for rogue teachers and schools that continue beating children.

---

6. Conclusion

Every child deserves to go to school without fear of being beaten. As parents, we have the right and duty to protect our children. Together, we can make sure schools respect the law and treat children with dignity, safety, and care.

Children learn better when they are guided, not punished.

---

✍️ Prepared by:
Kenya Association of Intellects (KAI) – Advocating for Parents, Students, and Child Rights

📍 Website: https://association.or.ke