The murder of female students is disturbingly increasing, with cases being reported frequently across the country, in addition to the wave of femicide cases that made headlines early this year. This puts the limelight on institutions of authority for turning a blind eye to the security of not only women but also, and especially female students.
The recent brutal killings of Mount Kenya University (MKU) student Vivian Kajaya and Zetech University student Seth Njeri indicate the failed collective responsibility of our communities and society at large.
Frequent killings pose a significant threat to students’ safety and create a pervasive atmosphere of anxiety among students and their families.
For students, most cases have been traced back to poor campus security, domestic violence and intimate partner violence (IPV), sexual assault, mental health issues, peer pressure, and socioeconomic pressures.
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It is crucial that the government, institutions, communities and law enforcement agencies to establish a multifaceted approach to address the issue of brutal killings of female students and prioritize students’ security.
First, enhanced campus security
Security around universities should be improved through the installation of CCTVs, security lights and regular security patrols to ensure the safety of students. Universities can establish emergency call stations and quick response teams to act swiftly in case of emergencies.
Peer support and student-led initiatives
Institutions should encourage students to engage in peer support groups. This can play a vital role in reducing murder cases since students spend more time amongst themselves. They find it easy to share ideas, fears and challenges they may be facing. Through this, students can promote awareness and empower others, thus creating a safer environment for everyone.
Government protection and advocacy
The government should enforce stronger protection strategies for students such as the provision of additional security and mandatory reporting of Gender Based Violence (GBV) incidents on campus. This could help in protecting not only female students but everyone around the campus.
Personal standards and enforcing boundaries
As a lady, one can set personal standards such as reducing meeting strangers and ‘Wababas’ late in the evenings or during ungodly hours. Deter yourself from accepting favours, especially from people you do not trust. If in need of money, one can register for WorkStudy programmes or engage in other income-generating activities. Life is too precious to die over money.
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Community engagement and partnerships
Universities can engage and work in collaboration with NGOs and local law enforcement to create awareness, offer self-defense training and survivor support communities. The communities should also develop clear reporting mechanisms in case of aforementioned cases for immediate action to be taken on culprits.
Mental health support and counseling services
Universities should offer counseling services and provide mental health support to those with signs of mental health issues. This will help and empower students to find solutions to live better while in campus.
Lastly, gender-based violence prevention programmes
Universities should also create awareness programmes through clubs, sports and social media campaigns to teach students on healthy relationships and protocols of defense and reporting cases.
In conclusion, rising incidents of brutal killing of female students in universities underscores the urgent need for action by different stakeholders. Implementing these measures comprehensively can help reduce the number and severity of killings, making campus safer for everyone.
By Faith Oloo
The writer is a Rongo University student.
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