KNEC Declines Allowance Increase for KCSE Invigilators and Supervisors.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) announced on Tuesday that allowances for teachers contracted to supervise and mark the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) will remain unchanged, dealing a setback to thousands who hoped for a pay raise.
Citing budget limitations, KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere explained that the council could not meet the teachers’ demand for higher allowances.
Njengere indicated that while KNEC acknowledges the contributions of invigilators and supervisors, budget constraints hinder an allowance increase for this year.
He referenced last year’s adjustment, noting that it was the first rate change in nearly five years. He reiterated that any future increase would depend on budget flexibility, but, for now, the rates adjusted last year will remain in effect.
KUPPET and KNUT Advocate for Substantial Allowance Increase
Teachers, through the Kenya Union of Primary and Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), had previously pushed for a significant increment, seeking allowances ten times higher than current rates for those overseeing the KCSE.
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KUPPET officials argued that current stipends do not reflect the rising cost of living and submitted a request in September to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba.
Their proposal included a daily rate of Ksh3,000 for invigilators, Ksh3,500 for supervisors, and Ksh4,500 for principals managing exam centers.
Additionally, during an October 30 meeting in Kisii, teachers criticized the government’s reluctance to offer adequate compensation despite their dedication to ensuring efficient exam administration.
They stated their intention to demand a new daily rate of Ksh6,000, up from the current Ksh600, which they deemed insufficient.
Teachers Express Frustration Over Low Pay
Joseph Abincha, KUPPET’s Kisii Branch General Secretary, voiced frustration, contrasting the Ksh600 daily rate for supervisors with wages in the informal sector, such as construction, which he said pays more.
Abincha clarified that their demands are directed at the government rather than KNEC, insisting teachers cannot be expected to provide services for free.
Similarly, Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Collins Oyuu confirmed that their attempts to engage the government regarding an increase in teacher allowances have encountered delays.
In an interview, he noted growing impatience among teachers, highlighting their disappointment with the lack of response to their demands.
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Summary Table: KUPPET’s Proposed Daily Allowances
| Role | Current Rate (Ksh) | Proposed Rate (Ksh) |
|---|---|---|
| Invigilators | 600 | 3,000 |
| Supervisors | 600 | 3,500 |
| Principals (Exam Centers) | 600 | 4,500 |
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