The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is facing calls to enhance teacher salaries to improve their quality of life and support their families. Retired teacher John Ogeto voiced these concerns, emphasizing the necessity for better remuneration for teachers who often work with dedication despite earning modest salaries.
During a speech at Kiogo Primary and Junior Secondary School, where he joined teachers and students in mourning the loss of one of their colleagues, Gabriel Mokono, Ogeto highlighted the financial struggles teachers face. Mokono, from Kitutu Central Sub-county, passed away after a prolonged illness. Ogeto lamented that many teachers earn insufficient wages, which are inadequate even to purchase a single dairy cow or cover essential family expenses such as school fees.
Kisii County KUPPET Executive Secretary Joseph Abincha expressed his condolences to Mokono’s family on behalf of the union’s leadership. In a heartfelt message, Abincha conveyed the deep sorrow felt by the education community over Mokono’s passing, noting his passion for teaching and the positive impact he had on many lives. “His absence leaves a profound void,” Abincha’s message read, praising Mokono’s dedication to his students and the broader community.
The loss of Mokono follows closely on the heels of other tragic events in the Kisii County education sector. Just two weeks prior, the Principal and Deputy Principal of Rianyabaro and Nyagichenche secondary schools passed away. Rianyabaro Principal Shem Abere succumbed to injuries sustained in a road accident, while Nyagichenche Deputy Principal Edna Naliaka died after a long illness.
These recent losses have cast a pall over the education community, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices faced by educators. The calls for better salaries underscore the need for the TSC to recognize the critical role teachers play in society and ensure they are compensated fairly for their invaluable contributions.
