NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 29- Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has led a fundraising drive at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, aimed at supporting the reconstruction of the school following the deadly dormitory fire that claimed the lives of 16 students. Lagat, who arrived at the academy on Saturday for the fundraising event, is seeking to rally support for the rebuilding of the institution, which serves a significant number of children from police families. The fundraising comes three months after the May 28, 2026 tragedy in which a fire swept through a dormitory at the school shortly after midnight, killing 16 girls and injuring scores of others. The fire affected a dormitory housing about 220 students, with reports indicating that some students were forced to jump from windows as they attempted to escape the flames. At least 79 students were injured in the incident. The tragedy triggered a major national debate on safety in boarding schools, particularly concerns over overcrowding, emergency exits and preparedness for fires. Investigations also raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the blaze, with authorities examining CCTV footage and interviewing students, teachers and other witnesses. The Education Ministry subsequently said that one of the dormitory’s exit doors had been locked, contrary to prescribed safety requirements. The school...
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