Junior Secondary Teachers Demand Permanent Jobs and Compensation

Junior Secondary Teachers Demand Permanent Jobs and Compensation.

In Makueni and Nakuru County, junior secondary school teachers took to the streets on Monday, May 13, 2024, demanding better pay and permanent employment. In Nakuru, 2,419 teachers from 11 sub-counties joined forces, refusing to return to school until their demands, including confirmation of interns and compensation for the internship period, were met.

These demonstrations were fueled by a recent court ruling declaring intern teacher positions illegal, emphasizing the Teachers Service Commission’s obligation to adhere to fair labor practices. The Employment and Labour Relations Court ruled that the commission had violated the teachers’ rights by offering them intern positions despite their qualifications and possession of teaching licenses.

Justice Byrum Ongaya’s ruling specified that the commission’s mandate is limited to hiring qualified and registered individuals, not student-teachers or interns.

The teachers are now advocating for permanent and pensionable employment terms, expressing frustration over being paid a mere Ksh17,000 despite their qualifications. Erastus Mawewu, spokesperson for the teachers in Wote, Makueni County, highlighted their dedication to teaching under the new curriculum, covering material beyond their university education.

Despite their qualifications and commitment, they feel sidelined by the government and vow not to return to work until they are recognized and treated fairly.

This protest coincides with the reopening of schools for the second term after a prolonged break caused by devastating floods across the country.

Junior Secondary Teachers Demand Permanent Jobs and Compensation