KNUT Decries Rising Gender-Based Violence Among Teachers in Schools

KNUT Decries Rising Gender-Based Violence Among Teachers in Schools.

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has expressed concern over the increasing incidents of various forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) affecting teachers in schools across the country.

The union highlighted how these cases are negatively impacting teachers’ performance, a worrying trend observed as the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV approaches its final days.

Mercy Muthoni, KNUT’s Second National Women Representative, pointed out that sexual harassment is the most prevalent form of GBV. She emphasized that this issue affects both genders, with male teachers also falling victim to harassment in certain work environments.

Muthoni explained that workers who experience sexual harassment are unable to perform effectively, regardless of gender. She stressed the need for collective efforts to eliminate harassment and violence in the workplace.

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“When a worker is sexually harassed, he or she cannot produce. It is not just about women, even males at some places of work are harassed. We are talking about bringing an end to harassment and violence at places of work,” she said.

The Need for Legal Measures and Mitigation

Speaking at a female teachers’ forum in Bomet, Muthoni called for the ratification of the 2006 ILO Convention C190, which addresses violence in the workplace.

She urged for collaborative efforts to combat GBV, highlighting that teachers need to develop strategies to identify and address instances of GBV, both within their workplaces and in their personal lives.

Muthoni noted that during the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, there was a unified voice among teachers to explore effective ways to mitigate and identify GBV cases. She encouraged awareness and proactive measures to support victims and prevent future incidents.

Desmond Langat, Executive Secretary of the Bomet branch, acknowledged that many teachers have fallen victim to GBV. He assured that the union would focus efforts on addressing GBV, in line with the organization’s laws.

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Pauline Korir, the County Social and Gender Services Chief Officer, echoed these concerns and called for peaceful conflict resolution methods within families.

Korir highlighted the rising cases of violence, including killings, domestic abuse, and defilement, in the region, urging the community to foster love and resolve disputes amicably.

KNUT Decries Rising Gender-Based Violence Among Teachers in Schools.

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