Students Raise Concerns on Funding Gaps and Teacher Stagnation at Nairobi Music Festival
At the conclusion of the Nairobi Region Music Festival, students emphasized the challenges faced by their teachers, with under-funding and delayed funds disbursement being major concerns.
Inadequate infrastructure in schools was also highlighted as a pressing issue. Through various plays, learners urged parents to not rely solely on government support but to invest in insurance for their children’s future.
Advocacy for Intern Teachers
Concerns regarding intern teachers at the junior secondary level were raised, with students advocating for their employment.
Kariobangi South Primary School students pointed out the multifaceted role of teachers in imparting knowledge, ethical values, and fostering lifelong learning, stressing the need for their motivation.
Under the School Equipment Production Unit (SEPU) theme, students addressed the scarcity of adequate facilities in their schools. SEPU was described as a crucial source for quality teaching and learning resources, as well as innovation in sciences.
Teacher Demotivation and Harassment
Beyond financial constraints, the festival shed light on deeper issues affecting teachers, including job stagnation and harassment, which negatively impact their performance.
The theme “A motivated, ethical, and globally competitive teacher,” sponsored by the Teachers Service Commission, saw students calling for better support and recognition for teachers.
Student Performances and Themes
Schools like Nairobi School, Precious Blood Riruta, Kamiti Secondary, and The Kenya High participated in the theme, stressing the vital role of teachers in talent nurturing.
Students lamented that teacher stagnation diminishes their spirits and criticized the practice of penalizing teachers for poor performance despite their efforts in student development.
The new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) received praise for enabling students to explore their potential across various learning areas, fostering creativity and innovation.
Schools such as Moi Girls Nairobi, Pangani Girls, and Karen C showcased their talents in elocution performances, expressing gratitude for the CBC.
Holistic Development and Creativity
Prof. Charles Ong’ondo, chief executive of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), highlighted the CBC’s role in promoting creativity and imagination at all educational levels.
He emphasized the curriculum’s integration of creative arts and sports pathways, essential for innovation and holistic development.
The festival also featured thematic classes on various topics, including data protection, career guidance, and public health campaigns.
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The “I See You” campaign by AA Kenya aimed at road safety by providing reflective materials to students and improving road infrastructure around schools.
Nairobi Region Director of Education Margaret Lesuuda stated that the festival celebrated not only talent but also the development of well-rounded individuals.
She emphasized that music education teaches discipline, patience, and perseverance, qualities valuable in all life areas.
Students Raise Concerns on Funding Gaps and Teacher Stagnation at Nairobi Music Festival
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