In a significant development for education in Kenya, teachers represented by the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post Primary Teachers (KUPPET) plan to strike starting Monday, August 26, 2024. This decision follows failed negotiations with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
The unions announced their decision after a meeting on August 21, 2024. During this meeting, union leaders expressed frustration over the TSC’s inability to address key grievances. Teachers face several pressing issues that remain unresolved.
First, about 130,000 teachers await promotion to higher job groups. Additionally, many educators have remained in the same positions for years. Furthermore, this stagnation has led to dissatisfaction and low morale among staff.
Second, the unions advocate for the permanent and pensionable confirmation of 46,000 intern teachers. Additionally, these teachers serve in temporary roles without job security. Furthermore, the unions argue that this lack of security undermines their contributions to education.
Third, the unions demand the full implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The TSC has proposed partial implementation, but the unions find this offer inadequate. They seek better medical coverage and timely remittance of statutory deductions.
Despite the National Treasury allocating Ksh30 billion to the Ministry of Education, union leaders argue that these funds do not adequately address teachers’ immediate concerns. They have expressed deep mistrust in the TSC’s commitment to resolving these issues. This distrust has fueled their decision to strike.
The impending strike raises concerns about disruptions in schools across the country. Educators play a crucial role in the academic development of students. Parents, students, and educational stakeholders anxiously await the outcome of this situation. They hope for a swift resolution that prioritizes teachers’ welfare and the quality of education in Kenya.
As the strike begins at midnight on August 25, both KNUT and KUPPET mobilize their members. They aim for a strong and unified response. The unions emphasize that the strike is legally protected. They are prepared to advocate for their rights until they meet their demands.