Kenya's education system has historically reinforced a struggle with the Kiswahili language, diminishing its prestige compared to English. This has led to generations of Kenyans feeling uncomfortable using Kiswahili in formal settings.

• The problematic practice of penalizing students for speaking Kiswahili, often with a "disk" or tag, instilled shame and guilt, associating the language with wrongdoing rather than pride.
• Lecturers Mr. Kiguta and Dr. Raphael Gacheiya attribute the issue to colonial language policies that favored English and the subsequent educational structure that continued to position it as more valuable for education, employment, and international opportunities.
• Despite Kiswahili being an official language, its integration into higher education and professional spheres remains limited, with a preference for English on certificates and in job requirements, further marginalizing Kiswahili.