The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary-General Collins Oyuu has issued a stern warning to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), urging the immediate confirmation of 46,000 intern teachers on permanent and pensionable terms by January 2025. Speaking at an event in Likuyani on Saturday, Oyuu emphasized the urgency of implementing the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) as stipulated in the memorandum recently presented to the TSC, hinting at severe repercussions should these demands not be met.
Call for Immediate Action on Intern Teachers
Collins Oyuu underscored the plight of the 46,000 intern teachers, many of whom have been working under temporary contracts, with the promise of permanent employment dangling as a distant hope. The Secretary-General emphasized that these interns play a crucial role in the education sector, and their confirmation would not only secure their future but also stabilize the teaching workforce across the country.
Oyuu stated, “The 46,000 interns must be confirmed as permanent and pensionable by January next year. If not so, hell might break loose.” This strong statement underscores the high stakes involved, as the union views the confirmation of these teachers as non-negotiable.
Implementation of the 2021 CBA
At the heart of Oyuu’s address was the demand for the full implementation of the 2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The agreement, which outlines various benefits for teachers, has been a contentious issue between the union and TSC. Oyuu pointed out that the implementation of the second phase of the CBA is crucial as it encompasses provisions that benefit teachers significantly.
“The labour issue was among those that we shared. The implementation of the second phase of the CBA, this had double benefits,” Oyuu noted. He stressed that the benefits embedded within the CBA are not only financial but also extend to job security and better working conditions for teachers. He argued that the implementation of the 2021 CBA would pave the way for discussions on a new CBA, highlighting the union’s commitment to continually improving the welfare of its members.
Grade Nine Placement and System Stability
Oyuu also addressed the ongoing debate about the placement of grade nine, affirming that it remains domiciled in primary schools, contrary to suggestions that the education system had shifted. This clarification is essential as it addresses concerns among educators and parents about the current structure of the education system.
“The system has not changed. Grade nine is still domiciled in primary schools,” Oyuu clarified, emphasizing that stability within the education sector is paramount for both students and educators.
Demand for Salary Increment Disbursements
In addition to the call for intern confirmations, Oyuu highlighted the need for the government to disburse the remaining Ksh.1 billion meant for teacher salary increments to TSC. He reiterated that the funds are critical for honoring the financial commitments made under the CBA, which directly impacts the morale and productivity of teachers across the country.
“The government needs to disburse the remaining Ksh.1 billion meant for teacher salary increments to TSC,” he stated, stressing that financial stability for teachers is a key factor in maintaining quality education standards.
Future of Teacher Welfare
Looking forward, Oyuu stressed the importance of securing a new CBA that addresses emerging challenges within the teaching profession. He referred to the current agreement as a “maternity CBA,” implying that it has been long overdue and filled with challenges akin to a prolonged labor process.
“We have presented a memorandum to TSC, and we want to make sure that this time it will not be a ‘maternity’ CBA,” Oyuu remarked, signaling a renewed push for timely and efficient negotiations.
As the January 2025 deadline looms, the KNUT Secretary-General’s remarks serve as a clear message to the TSC and the government: the union is prepared to take decisive action to ensure the welfare of its members is upheld. The call to confirm intern teachers reflects a broader demand for accountability and commitment to the agreements made with educators in Kenya.
