On November 2, 2024, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki met with leaders of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) at State House Nairobi. This meeting was significant as it came in the wake of ongoing tensions within the education sector, particularly regarding teachers’ welfare and the looming threat of strikes.
The meeting included prominent figures such as President William Ruto and KUPPET’s National Chairman Omboko Milemba. The discussions were aimed at addressing critical issues affecting teachers and the overall quality of education in Kenya.
A primary concern was the full implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which includes salary increments and promotions for teachers. KUPPET officials stressed that many teachers are still awaiting overdue promotions and better pay.
President And His William Ruto And Kithure Kindiki Meet KUPPET Officials At State House, Nairobi
The backdrop of the meeting was a potential strike by KUPPET members, which had been a contentious issue since August when teachers expressed dissatisfaction over their working conditions and pay. KUPPET had previously voted to proceed with a strike despite a split with the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), which opted out.
The union is currently facing a financial crisis due to delays in dues remittance from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). This situation has led to threats from landlords over unpaid rents for union offices and difficulties in paying staff salaries.
Both Ruto and Kindiki acknowledged that improving teachers’ welfare is essential for enhancing educational quality. They discussed strategies to tackle declining academic performance and resource shortages in schools.
The meeting was held at State House Nairobi, the official residence of the President, symbolising the government’s commitment to engaging with educational stakeholders on pressing issues.
The meeting is crucial as it reflects the government’s attempt to bridge gaps between educational authorities and teachers’ unions amidst a backdrop of unrest and dissatisfaction within the education sector. With schools reopening for the third term, timely resolutions are necessary to prevent disruptions that could further hinder students’ learning experiences.
Following this meeting, both KUPPET and government officials expressed a desire for continued dialogue. Kindiki reiterated his commitment to an open-door policy for discussing teachers’ concerns, while KUPPET aims to ensure that its members’ grievances are addressed promptly.
In addition, KUPPET plans to explore ways for its members to benefit from government housing projects, highlighting a broader initiative to improve living conditions for teachers. The union also seeks to negotiate a new CBA for 2025-2029, indicating ongoing efforts to secure better terms for educators.
As Kenya’s education sector grapples with significant challenges, including teacher strikes and financial crises within unions, the meeting between Deputy President Kindiki and KUPPET officials represents a pivotal moment for potential reform. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact not only teachers’ welfare but also the quality of education that students receive across the country. Stakeholders await further developments as both parties strive to find common ground in addressing these pressing issues.
