Muslim students expelled over hijab at KMTC-Hola reinstated after SUPKEM intervention

An urgent intervention by Muslim community leaders in Tana River County has led to the reinstatement of eight Muslim students who had been expelled from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Hola Campus for wearing the hijab.

The expulsion had unsettled the local community, raising concerns that religious freedom for Muslim students at the institution was being curtailed.

Under the auspices of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), a delegation of Imams, Muslim religious and community leaders visited the college to engage the administration on the matter.

The intervention was coordinated by Sheikh Musa Bute, the SUPKEM chairman for Tana River County, who tasked the delegation with seeking an amicable resolution.

During the meeting, the delegation held constructive discussions with the college leadership, emphasizing the need to uphold religious freedom and respect students’ rights to practise their faith.

“The KMTC administration had concerns regarding the hijab, which we discussed and agreed upon. They apologised for the expulsion of the students and reaffirmed that the religious rights of learners will be respected,” Sheikh Musa told Sahifa Media.

In addition to reinstating the students, the college administration also pledged to address concerns related to the accommodation of prayer times for Muslim students.

“We will continue to follow up with the school administration to ensure that the students’ rights are respected,” Sheikh Musa said, confirming that all affected students had resumed their studies.

Both parties agreed to strengthen cooperation in addressing students’ concerns and promoting harmony within the institution.