Kenyan Teachers Poised for Strike Over Unfulfilled Collective Bargaining Agreement

This potential action, pending approval from Secretary General Collins Oyuu, underscores the mounting tension between teachers and the government over unmet promises tied to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Kipkelion KNUT Executive Secretary David Bore expressed the unwavering resolve of branch officials and teachers during a recent address in Kericho town. Bore highlighted that numerous meetings have been conducted with teachers to prepare for a possible strike, contingent on Oyuu’s directive.

“As branch officials, we have held meetings with our members and they are ready like yesterday. We are only waiting for the green light from the Secretary General,” Bore affirmed.

The frustration stems from the government’s perceived reluctance to honor the final phase of the CBA, a document that was negotiated and signed well before the controversial Finance Bill was introduced. Bore criticized the government’s reasoning, stating that using the Finance Bill’s withdrawal as an excuse to delay the CBA’s implementation is unjustified.

“The CBA was agreed upon way before the Finance Bill was brought. It’s therefore wrong for the government to hang on the rejection of the bill as an excuse to dishonor the remaining phase. The government knows very well that crucial services like education must run,” Bore added.

The gravity of the situation is further underscored by the timing. The potential strike could disrupt the academic calendar as schools are set to reopen at the end of the month. Bore emphasized the need for the government to act swiftly to prevent such disruptions.

He cautioned against the disruption of the academic calendar, stating that the government has the ability to avert such disruptions. Bore called on the National Treasury and the Teachers Service Commission to urgently find a solution, questioning the rationale behind waiting for a strike to take place before addressing the issue.

“Why does the government have to wait until a strike takes place so as to act?” Bore asked.

This standoff has placed the spotlight on the Kenyan government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to educators. The CBA, a critical framework for ensuring fair compensation and working conditions for teachers, has become a focal point of contention. Educators are demanding the implementation of the last phase of the CBA, threatening to down tools just before schools reopen.

The potential strike by teachers highlights broader concerns about the government’s handling of key agreements with public sector employees. The situation has drawn attention to the importance of maintaining open communication channels and honoring commitments to ensure the smooth functioning of essential services like education.

The KNUT officials’ readiness to strike, coupled with their criticism of the government’s excuses, signals a critical juncture in the ongoing negotiations. As the government navigates these challenges, the focus remains on preventing disruption to the academic calendar and ensuring that teachers receive the support and compensation they deserve.

The unfolding events underscore the importance of dialogue and mutual respect between the government and educators. As the KNUT officials await the green light from Secretary General Collins Oyuu, the ball is now in the government’s court to address the educators’ concerns and avert a potential crisis in the education sector.

In conclusion, the looming strike by Kenyan teachers serves as a reminder of the critical role that educators play in shaping the future of the nation. It is a call to action for the government to fulfill its commitments and ensure that the education sector remains a priority.