KUPPET Protests KNEC’s Suspension of KCSE Markers, Calls for Immediate Reinstatement
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has called on the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) to reverse its decision to bar certain teachers from marking this year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.
Kisii Executive Secretary Joseph Abincha, speaking at the funeral service of Jared Oteyo’s mother at Mosora Secondary School, stated that the cancellation unfairly affected teachers who were not implicated in any examination irregularities.
Abincha labeled the move as infamous and urged Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba to intervene. He argued that the affected teachers had adhered to examination council directives by leaving their schools under the supervision of principals and deputies. Any malpractice that occurred was beyond their control.
Call for Fair Treatment of Teachers
Abincha pressed the Education CS to uphold his commitment to holding individuals accountable for examination malpractices while exonerating innocent groups such as schools and examiners.
He emphasized that collective punishment undermines the integrity of the education system and penalizes the wrong people.
Join Teachers Updates on Facebook
Shifting focus to teacher recruitment, Abincha criticized the process, citing discrimination and inadequate vetting of applicants.
He highlighted cases where qualified married female teachers were denied opportunities in their matrimonial homes and instead referred to their places of birth. He described this practice as discriminatory and likened it to the reintroduction of delocalization policies.
To address this, Abincha recommended involving local chiefs in verifying applicant details, noting that many applicants possess marriage certificates, affidavits, and identification letters.
He argued that forcing married teachers to return to their birthplaces could lead to challenges such as strained marriages and logistical issues.
Appreciation for Past Leadership
Abincha expressed gratitude to former Kisii Governor James Ongwae for his recognition of teachers and their inclusion in consultative forums during his tenure. Ongwae, who attended the funeral, reiterated the importance of community unity for accelerated development.
The funeral service was attended by prominent leaders, including former Water Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Woman Representative Donya Aburi, and Members of Parliament Alpha Miruka (Bomachoge Chache) and Japhet Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North).
ALSO READ: Deputy President Kindiki Calls for Urgent Education Reforms
Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi was also present, underscoring the event’s significance.
This renewed push by KUPPET highlights ongoing challenges within Kenya’s education sector and calls for fair treatment of teachers in both professional and personal spheres.
KUPPET Protests KNEC’s Suspension of KCSE Markers, Calls for Immediate Reinstatement.
