As the new school term approaches, the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) has issued a press statement addressing the reopening of schools for the third term amidst ongoing labour disputes between teacher unions and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The statement, dated August 25 and signed by KESSHA Chairman Willie Kuria, seeks to reassure parents and students about the continuity of education and the safeguarding of learners’ welfare despite the strike action.
KESSHA’s statement emphasizes the association’s commitment to ensuring that the well-being of students remains a priority, even as labour disputes threaten to disrupt the academic calendar. With schools scheduled to reopen on August 26, 2024, KESSHA has called on parents to prepare their children for the new term, while also providing assurances about the quality of education and student support.
The current labour disputes have been a source of significant concern for parents, students, and educational stakeholders across Kenya. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) had initially planned a strike, which has since been called off. However, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) remains resolute in its decision to proceed with strike action, leading to demonstrations by teachers in various towns across the country.
In their statement, KESSHA acknowledged the challenging situation faced by schools and the impact of the ongoing industrial action. Despite the uncertainty, the association reassured stakeholders that collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Education and the TSC are focused on protecting the interests of students. “With regard to the looming teachers strike occasioned by the labour dispute between teachers’ unions and the TSC, KESSHA in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the TSC would wish to assure all the parents and the learners countrywide that the learners’ welfare and well-being would be safeguarded while in the institutions of learning,” the statement read.
The decision by KNUT to call off its planned strike reflects a temporary reprieve in the ongoing labour disputes. Nonetheless, the persistence of KUPPET’s strike action poses a challenge for the smooth running of schools. The strikes have highlighted the broader issues surrounding teacher remuneration and working conditions, which continue to be a point of contention between the unions and the TSC.
KESSHA’s intervention is crucial in maintaining stability in the education sector during these turbulent times. By issuing a clear communication about the reopening of schools and the measures in place to ensure student safety and well-being, KESSHA aims to provide reassurance to concerned parents and students. This proactive approach is intended to mitigate the impact of the strikes on students’ academic progress and ensure that educational institutions remain a safe and conducive environment for learning.
The KESSHA statement also underscores the importance of collaboration between educational stakeholders to address the underlying issues contributing to the labour disputes. While the resolution of the current disputes remains uncertain, KESSHA’s efforts to provide clarity and support for the upcoming school term are a positive step towards ensuring that the education sector remains resilient in the face of challenges.
As the third term begins, the education community will be closely watching how the situation unfolds and whether further disruptions may occur. For now, KESSHA’s assurance provides a measure of stability and hope that the academic year can proceed with minimal interruptions. Parents and students are encouraged to remain vigilant and stay informed about any further developments related to the ongoing labour disputes and their potential impact on school operations.
In conclusion, while the ongoing teacher strikes present significant challenges, KESSHA’s commitment to safeguarding learners’ well-being and ensuring the continuity of education is a crucial aspect of navigating this period of uncertainty. The collective efforts of all stakeholders will be essential in overcoming these challenges and ensuring that students can continue their education with minimal disruption.
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