The cane could make a return to Kenyan schools following fresh discussions in Parliament over the legal provisions that outlaw corporal punishment in learning institutions.
The National Assembly Committee on Education has hinted at possible changes to the law prohibiting physical punishment of learners, citing growing concerns over student indiscipline and increasing cases of attacks on teachers.
The development has reignited debate about discipline in schools, with questions emerging over whether bringing back the cane would help restore order in learning institutions.
Education Committee chairman Julius Melly said the proposal to review the ban had been presented to the committee, crediting the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) for pushing the issue.
Melly questioned why teachers face legal consequences for physically disciplining learners while students who attack their teachers appear to face less decisive punishment.
Speaking during a gathering of education stakeholders in Mombasa, the Tinderet MP expressed concern that some learners had become increasingly aggressive towards teachers, making it difficult for school administrators to maintain order.
The proposal comes amid growing anxiety over school unrest, including incidents of violence, destruction of property and attacks on education officials.
However, the suggestion has also attracted opposition from education stakeholders who argue that restoring corporal punishment could expose learners to abuse and undermine their constitutional rights.
Corporal punishment was outlawed in Kenyan schools in 2001. The prohibition was later reinforced under Section 36 of the Basic Education Act, 2013, which protects learners from physical and psychological punishment.
Those who violate the provision risk a fine of up to KSh100,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
The proposed review has therefore opened a fresh national conversation about whether strict disciplinary measures should be reconsidered to address the challenges facing schools.
While some teachers believe the cane could help restore discipline, opponents insist that schools should strengthen counselling, mentorship and parental involvement instead of returning to physical punishment.
The committee's position is expected to attract further debate as Parliament considers changes to education laws.
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