Drama Erupts as JSS Teachers Demands 500 National Positions in KNUT Before Joining
At a recent Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) conference, Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers raised demands to secure representation within the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT).
Currently unaffiliated with any union, the teachers expressed a desire to join KNUT but outlined specific conditions for membership, including the allocation of 500 national positions within the union’s structure.
Representing the group, Mr. Omari highlighted that JSS teachers have endured numerous unresolved challenges due to the absence of union representation.
He explained that teachers had been advised to either form their own union or join an existing one, such as KNUT or KUPPET, to effectively address their concerns. However, the group emphasized that their conditions must be met before membership could be formalized.
Key Demands of JSS Teachers
The JSS teachers presented a list of demands aimed at improving their working conditions and career progression. These included:
- Allocation of 500 leadership positions nationwide in KNUT.
- Advocacy for shorter internship periods.
- Enhanced career progression opportunities, including promotions every two years.
- Respectful communication from school heads, tailored to younger teachers, particularly millennials and Generation Z.
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Call for Understanding from School Heads
The teachers also addressed school leaders, urging them to adapt their communication styles to resonate with the younger generation of educators.
They expressed the need for a union that would actively champion their professional growth and protect their interests.
“We would love to talk to Head teachers who are here to understand that most of us are millennials and Generation Z. They should learn and talk to us in a way we understand. We also want a union that is ready to fight for us so that we have career progression after every two years,” said Omari.
KNUT’s Response to Demands
KNUT Secretary-General, Mr. Oyuu, acknowledged the teachers’ demands and urged patience as the union deliberates on the matter. He expressed optimism about integrating JSS teachers into KNUT, stating that the group had potential to take up significant roles, including treasurer, chairman, or even secretary-general.
While welcoming their membership, Mr. Oyuu cautioned the teachers to be prepared to compete for leadership positions, emphasizing that no roles would be handed out without merit.
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He also assured them that KNUT would advocate for JSS teachers to start at an improved job grade upon joining, which would support smoother career progression.
“There are no positions that are given on a silver platter. They should be ready to compete with others out there,” said Mr Oyuu.
Summary of KNUT’s Stand
The table below summarizes the union’s response and assurances:
| Demand | KNUT’s Response |
|---|---|
| Allocation of 500 leadership slots | Will be discussed; competition required for roles. |
| Shorter internship periods | To be reviewed. |
| Career progression | Support promised for smoother progression. |
| Respectful communication | Encouraged dialogue between teachers and school heads. |
KNUT’s leadership expressed commitment to addressing the concerns raised, assuring JSS teachers of meaningful representation within the union.
Drama Erupts as JSS Teachers Demands 500 National Positions in KNUT Before Joining
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