KNUT and KUPPET issued strike notice and demand TSC action.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) have issued a firm ultimatum to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), threatening a nationwide teachers’ strike scheduled for August 26, 2024.
This decision comes as the unions express frustration over the TSC’s failure to address six critical issues affecting their members.
Key Demands of KNUT and KUPPET:
Full Implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA):
The unions are demanding that the TSC fully honor the terms of the CBA, which was supposed to be implemented in phases. They insist that all agreed-upon terms be met without further delays.
Conversion of Junior Secondary School (JSS) Teachers:
The unions are calling for the conversion of JSS teachers to a new employment status that appropriately recognizes their contributions to the education sector.
Confirmation of Intern Teachers:
The unions demand the immediate confirmation of all current intern teachers to permanent and pensionable positions, with the changes being retroactive to July 1, 2024. They are also insisting that the arrears be paid in full to these teachers.
Promotion of 130,000 Teachers:
The unions emphasize the need to promote 130,000 teachers who have been stagnating in their current job grades. These teachers have already been shortlisted and interviewed for new positions, and the unions demand their promotions be implemented within the current financial year.
Teachers’ Medical Scheme:
There is significant concern over the reduction of Ksh.11.89 billion in the funding for the teachers’ medical scheme. This cut is expected to halve the benefits provided to teachers, severely impacting their healthcare access.
Deductions and Allowances:
The unions are demanding that the TSC stop deducting NSSF contributions from teachers’ salaries without remitting them to the fund. They also call for a new CBA that includes risk allowances for science teachers, postgraduate allowances, per diems for games teachers, and special duty and acting allowances for teachers who are not formally appointed to their positions.
Medical Scheme Concerns:
KUPPET Secretary General Akello Misori voiced his concerns regarding the severe reduction in the budget allocated for the teachers’ medical scheme. This funding cut is expected to significantly diminish the healthcare benefits available to teachers, which the unions argue is unacceptable.
Conclusion:
The unions have clearly outlined their demands and are adamant that the TSC take immediate action. They are advocating for fair treatment and recognition of teachers’ efforts through proper compensation, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
Should the TSC fail to address these issues, KNUT and KUPPET are prepared to proceed with a nationwide strike, potentially disrupting the education sector across the country.
KNUT and KUPPET issued strike notice and demand TSC action.
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