Tragedy struck Sironga Girls’ High School on Saturday when a form four student, Mitchelle Cheptoo, reportedly died by suicide after jumping from the second floor of the school’s administration block.
The 17-year-old student, who was preparing to sit for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in October, jumped at around 5am while her peers were getting ready for the day.
School Principal Jane Nyanumba confirmed the incident, stating that Cheptoo was immediately rushed to Nyamira County Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
“She was okay and even slept well. We are shocked,” Nyanumba said, noting that Cheptoo had shown no signs of distress before the incident.
Nyamira South Deputy County Commissioner Florence Obunga added that Cheptoo had sustained head injuries and expressed sorrow over the devastating impact the incident has had on the school community.
“The girls are very devastated,” Obunga said, mentioning that despite the school having a strong counselling department, Cheptoo had not opened up to anyone about her struggles.
Local lawmaker, West Mugirango MP Steve M. Mogaka, expressed his shock and disbelief over Cheptoo’s death, urging authorities to investigate the cause and calling for mental health awareness measures in schools.
“Mental health has become a leading concern and I will draft a motion in Parliament to introduce counselling lessons in the curriculum,” Mogaka stated.
The cause of Cheptoo’s suicide remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing. The incident has drawn attention to the importance of mental health support for students, particularly those under the pressure of national exams like the KCSE.