KUPPET cancels the teacher strike AFTER meeting with TSC
After a crucial meeting between representatives from the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) on Monday, KUPPET decided to call off the teacher strike that had been ongoing since the previous week. The announcement was made during a joint press conference by TSC CEO Nancy Macharia and KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori, who emphasized that the strike was suspended while TSC worked on addressing the remaining unresolved issues.
Misori expressed optimism about the progress made during the negotiations, stating, “The collective bargaining agreement has been paid, medical coverage has been reinstated, and TSC is actively seeking funds to promote as many teachers as possible. Discussions are also underway regarding the confirmation of teachers in acting positions.” He assured teachers who had participated in the strike that there would be no punitive measures taken against them.
Macharia acknowledged the importance of the discussions, noting, “We met with the unions today because the children are greater than all of us, and we are joining efforts to ensure they cover the lost time. We recognize that our teachers are very hardworking.” She also mentioned that while the policy document had many issues to cover, progress had been made, and updates would be provided as the situation evolved.
The strike had initially been triggered by delays in implementing the 2021–2025 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Although the government has begun rolling out the second phase of the CBA, KUPPET argued that the pay increase was insufficient to meet the teachers’ needs.
Despite the ongoing strike, there have been signs of progress, including the government’s commitment to hiring Junior Secondary School (JSS) instructors and ensuring fair compensation for those stepping in to fill these roles. However, KUPPET remains steadfast in its demand for more significant efforts, particularly in the area of teacher promotion.
The decision to suspend the strike marks a temporary resolution, with both parties agreeing to continue working together to address the outstanding issues. This development is seen as a positive step toward ensuring stability in the education sector and minimizing the disruption to students’ learning.
