Drama As Contractor Lock Classroom, Toilet Over Pay Delay

Drama As Contractor Lock Classroom, Toilet Over Pay DelayAt Chebino Primary School in Bomet County, students and teachers arrived to find a new classroom and toilet block locked by a contractor protesting payment.The contractor was suing the county government for payment. The county’s education department awarded the Sh1.5 million contract to Geoffrey Lego’s company.Governor Hillary Barchok dedicated the ECDE classroom and toilet block earlier this year, despite Mr. Lego’s attempts to halt the event due to nonpayment of his dues.On Monday, more than 40 students from the school’s Early Childhood Development Education center in Kimulot, Konoin sub-county, braved the chilly weather and drizzles to attend lessons under a tree.The children were also unable to use the restroom. Teachers were forced to send the students home until the situation was resolved.The school’s administration expressed regret for the turn of events, but stated that there was nothing they could do because the contractor was only demanding his right.On Tuesday, a meeting between the school’s administration and county officials failed to break the impasse.ALSO READ:A member of the school board who did not want to be identified said there was a general feeling that the contractor was wrong to take such drastic action that disrupted lessons.“We came to the realization that the contractor acted out of the pain he was going through trying to pursue his payment for the work he had done. We understand his situation, the payment has been delayed by over one year, but the move was drastic and shameful: said the board member.He added: "The contractor explained himself and members saw sense in his action. We are escalating the matter to ensure learning resumes and that there will be no interruption again in the future"Drama As Contractor Lock Classroom, Toilet Over Pay Delay

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