MPs Urge Teachers to Postpone Looming Strike Amid Financial Constraints
As the reopening of schools approaches, tensions are escalating between teachers’ unions and the Kenyan government over unmet demands, leading to the possibility of a nationwide teachers’ strike.
Scheduled for Monday, August 26th, the strike has prompted Members of Parliament (MPs) to urge teachers to reconsider their plans, citing the country’s current financial challenges.
Several MPs have called for dialogue, emphasizing that negotiation is the best path forward given the economic constraints. Despite these appeals, teachers’ unions remain resolute, insisting that the strike will proceed if their demands are not addressed.
The unions are demanding permanent contracts for all intern teachers, salary increments, improved working conditions, and the full implementation of their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Union leaders have stated that the CBA has already been signed and deposited, and they expect the government to honor it.
Additionally, they have called on the government to fulfill its promise of employing more teachers, a commitment made by President William Ruto but yet to be realized.
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“By Monday on 26th of this month teachers will not report back to school, so they will have to make contingent arrangement to have their children at home or bring them them to school to take care of themselves.” Said Kuppet Deputy Secretary-General Moses Nthurima.
With just a week before schools are set to reopen, the focus is on the government’s response to these demands. If the issues are not resolved, public education could face significant disruptions.
The unions have urged their members to remain strong in the face of potential intimidation, declaring that they will not report back to work unless their conditions are met.
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The looming strike has raised concerns among parents, students, and education stakeholders, with many questioning whether the government has done enough to prevent the strike.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government’s next move in this unfolding education crisis.
MPs Urge Teachers to Postpone Looming Strike Amid Financial Constraints
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