Division in KNUT Leadership Over CS Nominee Migos Ogamba
The leadership of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) is currently divided over the nomination of Migos Ogamba as the new Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Education.
While some officials have opposed Ogamba’s nomination, others, including Secretary-General Collins Oyuu, have welcomed it.
Oyuu expressed confidence that Ogamba would succeed by consulting all stakeholders, acknowledging that the education sector is challenging.
He thanked President William Ruto for the nomination, believing Ogamba could transform the sector’s fortunes, although he cautioned that the task would not be easy.
Speaking at Nyasanda Primary School grounds in Ugunja, Siaya County, during the Siaya branch annual general meeting, Oyuu emphasized that the entire nation, including parents, teachers, and students, would closely watch the new CS nominee.
He urged Ogamba to ensure that schools and educational institutions receive adequate and timely funding. Branch Executive Secretary Alex Dunga was also present at the meeting, supporting Oyuu’s remarks.
Concerns and Criticism
However, the union’s second national vice-chairman, Aggrey Namisi, criticized President Ruto for nominating Ogamba.
He argued that Ogamba might lack the necessary background to manage the ministry effectively, given its numerous challenges.
Namisi stated that while there was no issue with Ogamba as a person, the education sector required someone with a clear educational background who would not need orientation.
He noted that Ogamba is a lawyer by profession, which may not equip him to handle the role effectively.
Namisi highlighted that the docket needs a CS who can quickly adapt and drive the necessary transformation, especially as the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is at a critical stage.
With the Kenya Kwanza administration halfway through its term, Namisi stressed that a CS without a background in education might take time to settle in.
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He also criticized Ruto for nominating an ally of former CS Ezekiel Machogu, pointing out that Ogamba was Machogu’s running mate in the 2022 Kisii gubernatorial race, which they lost.
Namisi expressed concerns that the nomination seemed like a continuation of the former CS’s policies.
Division in KNUT Leadership Over CS Nominee Migos Ogamba
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