KUPPET Warns Govt Against Budget Cuts for Teacher Employment
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued a stern warning to the government regarding its alleged plans to cut the budget for converting Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers to permanent and pensionable positions.
The union argues that this move will worsen the existing teacher shortage in junior secondary schools.
KUPPET disputes claims that the Finance Bill 2024/2025 was intended to address the teacher shortage issue.
They assert that sufficient funds, including those allocated for classroom construction, could be reallocated to employ teachers.
“The teachers are not going to accept this idea of not employing teachers because the the situation at Junior Secondary School is wanting.” Said KUPPET Secretary General Moses Nthurima.
Criticism of Unfulfilled Promises
The union has criticized the government for failing to fulfill its promise to convert intern teachers to permanent positions.
KUPPET highlights the untenable learning conditions due to the teacher deficit and suggests redirecting funds from housing projects to address this shortage.
KUPPET has asked the government to honor its commitment to the collective bargaining agreement, firmly rejecting any proposed reduction of the 46,000 teachers.
The union emphasized that the teachers will not accept the idea of not employing more teachers, given the dire situation in junior secondary schools.
KUPPET pointed out that learners have not received proper instruction for the last two years, with only two teachers managing the two classes currently.
They argue that the claim of no available funds due to the Finance Bill 2024/2025 not passing is untrue, citing significant wastage in government spending.
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The union suggests that funds from the affordable housing project and other areas be redirected to employ teachers. KUPPET remains steadfast in defending the position of converting intern teachers to permanent and pensionable positions, stating they will do so “through our sweat and blood.”
KUPPET Warns Govt Against Budget Cuts for Teacher Employment
