Ending Teachers’ Strike in Kenya: The Need to Provide Better Conditions of Service

Second Lady Pastor Dorcas Gachagua, Deputy President RIgathi gachagua, President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto and Education CS Julius Migos at Moi Girls High Schools in Eldoret on August 16, 2024

By Africa Publicity

News headlines in Kenya in recent days have partly been dominated by threats from members and leadership of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) to embark on a strike action if the second phase of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is not implemented, again bringing to the fore the need to take major steps aimed at ending teachers’ strikes in Kenya.

KNUT Secretary General, Collins Oyuu, says all the Union’s branches have given the strike a green light, with notice now served on the Teacher Service Commission (TSC) about the strike which is expected to begin on August 26, 2024.

In a speech at Oriang Primary School in Rachuonyo East Sub-county during the Rachuonyo Branch KNUT Annual General Meeting, Mr. Oyuu vowed that KNUT will not be lenient with TSC anymore.

He says “I want to acknowledge the resolution that KNUT branches took in ensuring that the second phase of the CBA is implemented. I assure you that teachers are ready to down their tools if the TSC fails to honour implementation of the second phase of the CBA”.

The strike

At the heart of the strike is the demand for better conditions of service. The teachers and other education workers across Kenya want the President William Ruto government to take urgent steps to improve their conditions of service.

Background of Teachers’ Strikes in Kenya

Kenya has faced numerous teachers’ strikes over the years, which have often resulted in significant disruptions to the education system. These strikes, largely driven by demands for improved working conditions and remuneration, highlight the ongoing challenges in the education sector. Addressing these issues is crucial not only for the wellbeing of educators but also for the future of students and the broader socio-economic development of the country.

Teachers’ strikes in Kenya are not a new phenomenon. Historically, educators have used strikes as a tool to pressure successive governments and relevant authorities (including the government of immediate-past President Uhuru Kenyatta) into addressing their grievances. Key issues include inadequate salaries, poor working conditions, and a lack of essential resources and support.

In recent years, these strikes have intensified, reflecting the growing frustration among teachers. For example, the Kenya National Union of Teachers and other education unions have frequently called for strikes to demand better pay, improved benefits, and safer working environments. These actions underscore the urgent need for systemic change within the education sector.

The Impact of Strikes on Education

The impact of teachers’ strikes on the education system is profound. School closures disrupt learning, leading to delays in curriculum coverage and negatively affecting students’ academic performance. The interruptions also contribute to increased dropout rates and widen the educational gap, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Moreover, repeated strikes can erode public trust in the education system and demoralize both teachers and students. Parents, too, face challenges as they must find alternative arrangements for their children during strike periods, further exacerbating social and economic pressures.

It is in this regard that President Ruto has directed the Treasury and the TSC to dialogue with teachers’ unions in order to stop the planned strike over the full implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

According to Mr. Ruto it was important to prevent disruption of the school calendar and directed the Treasury to engage with TSC and teachers’ unions Knut and KuppetT to avoid unnecessary industrial action.

He says: “That engagement is going to happen and I ask all the stakeholders to work together for the interests of our children respecting what is due to the teachers.”

Addressing the Root Causes

To end the cycle of strikes and improve the quality of education in Kenya, it is essential to address the root causes of teacher dissatisfaction. Several key areas need attention:

1. Competitive Salaries: Teachers’ salaries should be competitive and reflective of their qualifications and experience. Regular salary reviews and adjustments based on inflation and cost of living are crucial to ensure that educators are fairly compensated.

2. Improved Working Conditions: Schools need to provide a conducive working environment, including adequate facilities, teaching resources, and support staff. Addressing issues such as overcrowded classrooms and insufficient teaching materials is vital for effective teaching and learning.

3. Professional Development: Investing in continuous professional development for teachers can enhance their skills and effectiveness. Offering training programs, career advancement opportunities, and support for further education can help teachers stay motivated and perform at their best.

4. Health and Safety: Ensuring the health and safety of teachers is paramount. This includes providing proper medical coverage, safe working environments, and addressing any concerns related to occupational health.

5. Dialogue and Negotiation: Establishing a regular and transparent dialogue between teachers’ unions and the government can help address grievances before they escalate into strikes. Effective negotiation mechanisms and adherence to agreed terms are crucial for maintaining industrial harmony.

Government’s Role

The Kenyan government plays a pivotal role in resolving the issues leading to teachers’ strikes. It must prioritize education in its budget, allocate sufficient resources, and implement policies that support teachers’ welfare. Engaging with teachers’ unions and other stakeholders in a constructive manner is essential for building trust and achieving long-term solutions.

Conclusion

Ending teachers’ strikes in Kenya requires a comprehensive approach to improving the conditions of service for educators. By addressing the underlying issues related to salaries, working conditions, professional development, health, and safety, the government can foster a more stable and effective education system. This not only benefits teachers but also has a positive impact on students and the broader society, ultimately contributing to Kenya’s socio-economic development and progress.