Low Turnout in Primary Schools Despite KNUT Teachers Strike Withdrawal
On the first day of the third term, most primary schools reported a significantly low turnout of learners, even though the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) had called off its strike.
A major factor contributing to this was the confusion among parents regarding whether the teachers belonged to Knut or the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet), with many unable to distinguish between the two unions.
Situation Across Different Schools in Homa Bay
At Lake Primary School, headteacher Zablon Owala noted that despite all 35 teachers arriving early, only 500 of the school’s 1,600 learners showed up. The teachers had been prepared to begin lessons at 7 am, having been notified the previous day that the strike had been called off.
Owala emphasized the need for parents to understand the distinction between Knut, which primarily represents primary school teachers, and Kuppet, which caters to secondary school teachers. This understanding, he stated, would encourage parents to send their children back to school.
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Shauri Yako Primary School experienced a similar situation, with fewer than 100 out of 1,850 learners reporting for lessons. Deputy headteacher Fred Akello reported that while all teachers were present, some parents may have mistakenly believed that the strike was still ongoing.
Lala Primary School witnessed an even more drastic drop in attendance, with only seven learners attending classes out of a total population of 400. Deputy headteacher Dorcus Oguda, who is also the Knut chairperson for Homa Bay Town constituency, reported that this situation was consistent across the region.
The Importance of Third Term Attendance
Oguda highlighted the critical nature of the third term, which spans just nine weeks. She urged parents to send their children to school, stressing that this period is essential for covering the syllabus and preparing for national exams.
ALSO READ: KUPPET Teachers Warn School Principals Urge Parents to Support Strike
Low Turnout in Primary Schools Despite KNUT Teachers Strike Withdrawal
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