Plans to grant Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) autonomy are gaining traction, according to Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) National Chairperson and Emuhaya MP, Omboko Milemba.
Speaking during the World Teachers’ Day celebrations at Moi International Sports Centre on Sunday, Milemba assured educators that their push for independence in the JSS framework has reached both the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the government.
“We have heard you and we have taken the steps of writing to the commission so that we can discuss with the government,” Milemba said. “As we do so, let us demonstrate respect and continue working for the benefit of our learners. I expect government and TSC leaders to engage our colleagues so we can resolve this amicably.”
Milemba emphasized the need for teachers to remain united despite ongoing challenges, including issues with pay and medical cover. He noted that the union is actively seeking solutions to ensure fair compensation and improved healthcare services for educators.
“As teachers of Kenya, we must work together,” he said. “ECD teachers are suffering as they earn below the minimum wage. We must address such issues and ensure our Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) are fully implemented.”
KUPPET and JSS tutors have consistently demanded that JSS be granted administrative independence from the primary schools where they are currently housed. They argue that the current arrangement has led to confusion in school management, particularly in sports and co-curricular activities.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba affirmed the government’s commitment to resolving these issues, highlighting that 74,000 teachers have been employed in the past two years, with plans to hire 24,000 more in January.
Ogamba also said school funding remains a priority, noting that capitation will be increased for verified institutions, with 38,000 schools already cleared to receive funds.
