The Ministry of Education has announced a significant development for public school teachers, with salary increases set to be distributed by the end of this week. This move comes as part of a broader effort to address teachers’ concerns and improve the education sector’s overall stability. Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Ogamba confirmed that the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) will oversee the disbursement of these salary increases, which will cover payments for July and August.
The salary increment is supported by a substantial allocation of Ksh 13.5 billion from the National Treasury, aligning with the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This agreement, which outlines a framework for salary adjustments and other employment conditions, has been a key factor in maintaining industrial harmony within the education sector.
The recent decision by the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) to call off a planned strike has contributed to a smooth return of students for the third term. The Ministry of Education, keenly monitoring the situation, has dispatched field officers to various schools nationwide to assess the status of teaching and learning activities. The aim is to ensure that students’ return to school is as seamless as possible, following the strike threat that had previously unsettled the sector.
In addition to the immediate salary increases, the Government is engaged in constructive discussions with the Kenya Union of Post Primary Teachers (KUPPET) to further address teachers’ issues. Ogamba expressed optimism about these negotiations, indicating that the Government’s commitment to fully implementing the second phase of the CBA and addressing additional administrative concerns is likely to lead to KUPPET members resuming their duties.
On August 25, 2024, President William Ruto announced a strategic plan to recruit 20,000 additional teachers by the end of the year. This move is aimed at addressing the persistent staff shortages in public schools, which have been a major challenge affecting the quality of education. Furthermore, Ksh 18.7 billion has been earmarked to transition intern teachers to permanent and pensionable status, effective January 2025. This initiative is expected to stabilize the teaching workforce and improve job security for many educators.
Ogamba has also highlighted the importance of teachers returning to their positions if they have not already done so. Their presence is crucial for preparing students for national assessments and ensuring that the syllabus is adequately covered. This is essential for maintaining continuity in the education system and facilitating smooth transitions between academic years.
In a broader context, the Ministry of Education is also focusing on technical and vocational education. Ogamba noted that the Government is working with the National Treasury to release Ksh 3.3 billion in capitation, scholarships, and loans for trainees in National Polytechnics and other Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. This funding is intended to support the effective operation of these institutions and enhance convenience for trainees, thereby contributing to the development of a skilled workforce.
The Government’s efforts to address the needs of both teachers and students demonstrate a commitment to improving the education sector in Kenya. By increasing salaries, recruiting additional teachers, and investing in vocational training, the Ministry of Education is taking significant steps to enhance the quality of education and ensure that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors. As these initiatives are implemented, they are expected to have a positive impact on the education system, fostering a more stable and productive learning environment for all stakeholders involved.
