The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has officially called off the nationwide teachers’ strike that began last week after a successful meeting with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) on Monday. The meeting, which was aimed at resolving the pressing issues that led to the industrial action, was attended by KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori and TSC CEO Nancy Macharia. The joint press conference held afterward announced the suspension of the strike, highlighting that the TSC had addressed several key concerns raised by the teachers.
Key Resolutions from the Meeting
During the press conference, Misori noted that significant progress had been made in meeting the teachers’ demands, which included the implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), restoration of medical cover, and discussions regarding teacher promotions. “The collective bargaining agreement has been paid, medical cover restored, and on issues of teacher promotion, TSC is looking for money to promote as many teachers as possible and is discussing the confirmation of teachers in acting positions,” said Misori.
He also assured teachers who participated in the strike that they would not face any reprisals, a critical assurance given the high stakes involved in industrial actions within the public service sector.
Teachers Service Commission’s Commitment
TSC CEO Nancy Macharia emphasized the commission’s commitment to resolving the issues and acknowledged the hardworking nature of teachers. She underscored the importance of cooperation between the union and the TSC for the benefit of students across the country, especially in ensuring that lost time in the classroom is effectively covered. “We are cognizant of the fact that our teachers are very hardworking, and we met with the unions today because the children are greater than all of us. We are joining efforts to ensure they cover the lost time,” Macharia stated.
She further noted that while the policy document outlining the agreements is comprehensive, there remains work to be done. However, the TSC is committed to transparency and will keep all stakeholders informed of ongoing progress. This commitment reflects the TSC’s broader objective of fostering a conducive working environment for teachers, which in turn positively impacts the education sector.
Ongoing Challenges and KUPPET’s Position
The strike was initially called by KUPPET to push for the full implementation of the 2021-2025 CBA, which was seen as a critical step towards improving the welfare of teachers across the country. While the government has started to implement the second phase of the CBA, KUPPET has maintained that the salary increments provided thus far are insufficient to meet the rising cost of living and the financial needs of teachers.
Despite calling off the strike, KUPPET has made it clear that more needs to be done, particularly in relation to the promotion of teachers. Misori pointed out that although the government has committed to hiring Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers and appropriately remunerating those serving in acting positions, the union insists that further action is required. “There is a policy document, and there is much to cover, but we have gone a step ahead and will keep everyone posted on the progress,” he said.
A Look Ahead
The resolution of the strike marks a significant moment for the education sector, with both KUPPET and TSC working towards ensuring that teachers’ rights and needs are adequately addressed. However, as both parties continue discussions, the focus will remain on the complete fulfillment of the CBA, particularly around pay adjustments, teacher promotions, and the confirmation of teachers in acting roles.
As the education sector navigates these challenges, the commitment from both KUPPET and TSC to keep lines of communication open and to work collaboratively is a positive sign. It underscores a shared goal of enhancing the welfare of teachers and, by extension, the quality of education for students across Kenya. This ongoing dialogue will be crucial in ensuring that the gains made are not only sustained but built upon in the months and years ahead.
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