Seven learners at Oldonyo Onyokie Secondary School Magadi have been admitted to hospital after sustaining serious injuries as strong winds left a trail of destruction at their learning institution.
Heavy winds blew up the classroom roofs on Monday afternoon October 24, 2022, leaving 31 girls injured out of the 115 girls present at the institution then. Ordinarily, the school has a capacity of 142 learners but others are said to be absent due to drought.
Those who were injured were rushed to Magadi medical facility where they were treated and discharged while others were admitted. Four students broke their hips and necks. Two others had back injuries and one broke her arms.
The school principal Grace Kimani said that three of the injured students have been referred to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
She said the winds were very strong and even destroyed sections of the blocks leading to the injuries.
"The incident happened at around 3:20 pm. Our students were in class for their afternoon sessions before very strong winds took a toll on everyone who was within our school. It was a devastating moment for all of us," Kimani narrated.
She said the winds lasted for about five minutes.
"I also got some minor injuries on the back. Those who were not injured are tormented," she added.
Learning called off
The principal said learning had to be called off on Tuesday to facilitate the students to undergo counselling and also to allow shocked parents who thronged the school to interact with their children.
Two teachers were also among those who were treated with minor injuries and discharged.
Those admitted are form three and four learners.
