Knut Lobbies TSC for Sabbatical Leave for Teachers’ Academic Growth
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) is urging the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to permit teachers to take sabbatical leave for academic research and participation in elective positions during the General Election.
This request is aimed at safeguarding teachers’ jobs and benefits as they pursue professional growth or political aspirations.
Ensuring Job Security for Ambitious Teachers
Knut’s first National Vice Chairman, Malel Langat, explained that teachers should not be at risk of job loss when seeking elected roles.
He argued that, similar to those in the private sector, teachers should be allowed to take a leave of absence and return to work if unsuccessful in their bids.
The request for sabbatical leave, Langat noted, is also crucial for teachers who face challenges balancing research for academic work with teaching obligations.
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Currently, teachers with publications used as set books face difficulty maintaining their jobs while conducting research due to limited study leave options.
Many teachers pursuing higher education, particularly those studying abroad, are often compelled to resign due to a lack of support for extended study leave.
Langat further stressed that authors whose work is used in educational curriculums should be given leave to conduct research without fear of unemployment.
He highlighted that it is unfair for teachers to be penalized for striving to advance their careers or shift to new paths if their ambitions do not come to fruition.
Types of Leave for Teachers
Teachers in Kenya have access to different types of leave, including:
- Maternity Leave: 120 days
- Paternity Leave: 21 days
- Pre-adoption Leave: 45 days
- Sick Leave: Six months, with full pay for the first 30 days, half pay for the next 30 days, and unpaid leave thereafter
Special leave is also granted for teachers undertaking out-of-country assignments, sports, study leave, or for those assuming roles in trade unions following elections.
However, study leave is generally restricted to graduate teachers pursuing post-graduate studies in designated fields, as outlined in the TSC Code of Regulation. P1 teachers with diploma certificates are not eligible for this leave to upgrade their qualifications.
CBA Negotiations and Proposed Changes
As part of the 2025-2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), Knut is advocating to extend the sick leave period from six to twelve months with full pay.
The current CBA, effective from 2021 to 2024, will expire at the end of the year, and TSC has initiated talks with trade unions expected to finalize by December.
TSC Chief Executive Officer Nancy Macharia expressed optimism about the ongoing CBA negotiations. She stated that the 2021-2025 CBA had successfully formalized teachers’ welfare in a binding agreement, which the government continues to implement.
Dr. Macharia noted that the commission is obligated by Labour Laws to engage unions in discussions regarding improvements to teacher welfare.
Government Support for Teachers
Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Mgosi Ogambo emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for teachers.
He highlighted the goal of providing highly qualified, motivated, and well-supported teachers to public schools as a means to ensure quality learning.
ALSO READ: 3,500 Grade 9 Classrooms Complete as Govt Targets 18,000 by January.
Speaking during World Teachers’ Day in Nakuru, he affirmed the government’s intent to intensify collaboration with teachers’ organizations to design policies that offer incentives, including competitive pay and clear career progression.
CS Ogambo noted the government’s pledge to support teachers through adequate resources, safe and healthy working environments, and accessible professional development paths, aiming to empower teachers and enhance their contributions to the educational system.
Knut Lobbies TSC for Sabbatical Leave for Teachers’ Academic Growth
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