Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua held a pivotal meeting with the leadership of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) to address pressing concerns that could potentially lead to a nationwide teachers’ strike. This urgent intervention came in response to threats from KNUT, which had warned that teachers might not report for duty at the start of the new term due to unresolved issues related to their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The roots of the dispute trace back to the government’s delay in implementing the second phase of the 2021-2025 CBA. The agreement had promised a salary increment of 7% to 9%, which has yet to be fulfilled. Additionally, teachers have raised concerns regarding their medical scheme, the non-remittance of SACCO and loan deductions, and delays in retirement benefit payments. These issues have significantly contributed to the growing discontent within the teaching fraternity.
KNUT Secretary-General Collins Oyuu expressed frustration on August 12, 2024, highlighting that despite efforts to engage with key stakeholders, including Budget and Appropriations Committee Chair Ndindi Nyoro and Education Committee Chair Julius Melly, their concerns had not been adequately addressed. Oyuu criticized the handling of the teachers’ demands and the subsequent lack of action, which he argued had created a volatile situation in the education sector.
One of the contentious issues raised was the job evaluation conducted by the Lyn Mengich-led Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). The SRC’s evaluation suggested that head teachers and their deputies should receive higher salaries compared to regular classroom teachers due to their increased responsibilities. This recommendation was met with resistance from KNUT, which argued that the evaluation was flawed and did not accurately reflect the workload of different teaching roles.
In response to these concerns, Mutua convened an urgent meeting with KNUT’s National Steering Council, including Oyuu and National Chairman Patrick Munuhe. During the meeting, Mutua assured the union leadership of his commitment to resolving the issues promptly. He acknowledged the challenges posed by recent government austerity measures, including the withdrawal of the contentious Finance Bill 2024, but emphasized his dedication to collaborating with relevant government bodies to address the teachers’ grievances.
Despite the budgetary constraints and the dissolution of 47 state corporations to streamline government operations, President William Ruto has promised significant financial support for the education sector. This includes an allocation of Ksh18.7 billion for the confirmation of Junior Secondary School interns and Ksh30.7 billion for the capitation of Junior Secondary schools. These funds are intended to support the education sector and mitigate some of the financial pressures faced by teachers and schools.
The meeting between Mutua and KNUT represents a critical step towards averting a teachers’ strike that could disrupt the education system just as the new term approaches. By addressing the key issues raised by the union and committing to finding solutions, the government aims to ensure that teaching and learning can proceed without interruption.
As negotiations continue, the hope is that a resolution can be reached that satisfies both the teachers’ demands and the government’s financial constraints. The outcome of these discussions will be closely watched by educators, students, and parents alike, as the stability of the education sector remains a top priority for all stakeholders involved.
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