The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) recently opted out of a teachers’ strike, inadvertently creating a fertile ground for the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) to strengthen its position and influence among educators. As the teaching profession grapples with numerous challenges, KUPPET’s ability to mobilize its members independently has emerged as a beacon of hope for many teachers across the country.
KUPPET’s Growing Influence
Ronald Tonui, KUPPET’s Assistant National Treasurer, articulated the union’s newfound confidence during an annual general meeting held in Siaya County at the Holy Cross Catholic Church hall. Tonui expressed gratitude towards KNUT for its decision to abstain from the strike, which he believes has allowed KUPPET to step into the spotlight and showcase its organizational capabilities. “We want to thank KNUT for not joining us in the strike so that people can no longer say that we always hang on their coat tails,” he stated. This statement reflects a broader sentiment among KUPPET members who are eager to establish their identity and assert their rights without reliance on KNUT.
The union’s ability to effectively halt learning in schools and advocate for teachers’ rights during this recent strike signifies a crucial turning point in Kenya’s educational landscape. As KUPPET continues to demonstrate its capacity for independent action, it is poised to become a formidable force in negotiations with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) set for 2025.
Preparing for Negotiations
With the upcoming CBA negotiations on the horizon, KUPPET is calling upon its members to submit proposals that address their pressing concerns. Tonui emphasized the importance of collective input from educators to ensure that their needs and aspirations are adequately represented in the negotiations. Among the key proposals is the introduction of a “Standing Allowance” for teachers. Tonui highlighted the physical toll that long hours of standing take on educators, arguing that this allowance is necessary to acknowledge the strenuous nature of their profession. “This is a very strenuous job that demands that one stands for long; others ask for a strenuous allowance and are given while we don’t,” he pointed out.
In addition to the Standing Allowance, KUPPET plans to advocate for a “Detoxification Allowance” specifically for science teachers. This allowance would serve as compensation for those who handle dangerous chemicals in the classroom, recognizing the health challenges that may arise from exposure to such substances. Tonui’s remarks underline the urgent need for better working conditions for teachers, particularly those in specialized subjects who face unique risks in their roles.
Addressing the Rising Cost of Living
As Kenya grapples with escalating living costs, KUPPET’s demands extend to a 100% salary increase in the upcoming CBA negotiations. This increase is seen as a vital step to ensure that educators can maintain a decent standard of living amidst the financial pressures that many families face. The rising cost of living has become a critical issue for teachers, and KUPPET’s insistence on a substantial salary adjustment aims to alleviate some of this burden.
Tonui also addressed the pressing issue of house allowances, advocating for their harmonization. He pointed out that the cost of rent outside Nairobi has skyrocketed, rendering the current system of house allowances inequitable for teachers residing in other regions. “Rent outside Nairobi has become equally expensive, making the current system unfair,” he noted. This call for fairness in housing allowances resonates with many educators who feel that their living conditions are not adequately supported by the existing compensation structures.
The Future of Teachers’ Representation
KUPPET’s rise to prominence following KNUT’s withdrawal from the recent strike highlights the dynamic nature of teachers’ representation in Kenya. The changing landscape raises questions about the future of these unions and their roles in advocating for the rights and welfare of educators. As KUPPET asserts itself as a viable alternative, the relationship between these unions will be crucial in shaping the collective bargaining process and influencing educational policies.
Tonui’s statements reflect a growing confidence among KUPPET members who are eager to see their concerns addressed and their voices heard. The union’s proactive stance in negotiating better terms for teachers could foster a sense of empowerment among educators, encouraging them to engage more actively in union activities and advocacy efforts.
Moreover, KUPPET’s success in the upcoming negotiations could set a precedent for other unions in the labor movement. A strong showing in these discussions may inspire a wave of similar initiatives across various sectors, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and collective action among workers in Kenya.
Conclusion
As the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) positions itself as a key player in the fight for educators’ rights, its ability to mobilize and advocate independently of KNUT marks a significant evolution in the labor landscape for teachers in Kenya. With a focus on addressing pressing issues such as allowances, salary increases, and fair housing policies, KUPPET is charting a course for a new era of representation that prioritizes the needs and welfare of teachers.
As negotiations with the Teachers Service Commission approach, the unity and determination of KUPPET members will be crucial in securing meaningful advancements for educators. This pivotal moment in Kenya’s labor movement reflects not only the resilience of teachers but also their commitment to shaping a future where their rights are recognized and upheld. With KUPPET leading the charge, the potential for positive change within the education sector has never been greater, and the voices of educators will undoubtedly echo louder in the halls of power as they advocate for their rightful place in society.
