The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has raised alarm over the escalating mental health issues among teachers in the South Rift Region, attributing the crisis primarily to gambling. This has led to an increase in suicides and hospitalizations due to depression, according to KUPPET officials.
Mary Rotich, the Executive Secretary of KUPPET’s Kericho Branch, expressed deep concern over the tragic developments during a recent address in Kericho town. Rotich revealed that the rising trend of gambling among educators has had devastating consequences, resulting in the loss of lives and deterioration of mental health within the teaching fraternity.
“Over four tutors have committed suicide while others are hospitalized due to depression in our county. This is worrying and urgent action needs to be taken,” Rotich stated, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The mental health crisis is not only affecting the individuals involved but also poses a significant threat to the broader community, given the essential role teachers play in shaping the lives of young learners. Rotich underscored the importance of community support and vigilance, urging colleagues and community members to look out for signs of distress among teachers and to provide necessary assistance promptly.
“We must be our brother’s keeper. Those showing signs of depression need urgent help,” she emphasized.
The KUPPET official called for immediate interventions to address the root causes of the crisis. Rotich suggested that comprehensive support systems, including mental health counseling and financial management education, be established for teachers to help them cope with the pressures that lead to gambling and subsequent mental health issues.
The alarming situation in the South Rift Region serves as a wake-up call for education stakeholders, policymakers, and the community at large to prioritize mental health and create a supportive environment for teachers. The wellbeing of educators is crucial for the stability and success of the education sector, and by extension, the future of the nation.
As KUPPET continues to advocate for the mental health of teachers, it is hoped that their call to action will lead to tangible changes that will safeguard the mental wellbeing of educators and, consequently, the quality of education in the region.
