KUPPET Raises Alarm Over Critical JSS Teacher Shortage in Kwale
Leonard Oronje, the Secretary of the Kwale branch of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), has raised concerns about the critical shortage of teachers in Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) across the region.
He highlighted that 40% of these schools are being managed by only one teacher, which puts immense pressure on the learning process.
According to Oronje, the situation forces the sole teacher to handle all subjects, which not only increases their workload but also negatively affects the quality of education.
He emphasized that over 40% of schools in Kwale are facing a severe teacher shortage, urging the government to intervene quickly to reduce the burden on existing staff and prevent an impending crisis.
Calls for Government Action
Oronje’s comments came after he submitted a memorandum to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Matuga as the teachers’ strike entered its second day.
He accused the government of making empty promises and expressed frustration over the lack of action to resolve the issues faced by teachers.
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He also pointed out that a significant number of teachers in the county, around 60%, are working in acting capacities without being fully promoted or receiving their due allowances.
Many of these teachers have been in acting positions for a decade without any salary adjustments, a situation Oronje described as both shameful and unfair.
Health Challenges Faced by Teachers
In addition to the staffing issues, Oronje also criticized the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) for its inefficacy, stating that despite regular deductions, teachers still struggle to access medical treatment.
He called on the government to implement a comprehensive medical cover for teachers to improve their well-being, noting that many teachers die due to the lack of access to quality healthcare services.
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KUPPET Raises Alarm Over Critical JSS Teacher Shortage in Kwale