JSS Teachers Advocate for Autonomy.
Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers are making a strong case for autonomy. They argue that independence from primary schools would allow them to address the unique challenges they face. Their call for separation extends to advocating for an independent teachers’ union, as they feel that current unions, like the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), fail to represent their specific needs. As part of their push for change, JSS teachers are also demanding better pay and a restructuring of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to give teachers a voice in decision-making.
The Push for Autonomy
JSS teachers want the freedom to manage their schools and students without interference from primary school administrations. This autonomy, they argue, would allow them to better focus on their roles and respond effectively to the needs of their students. At a recent luncheon in Nairobi to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, JSS national spokesperson Omari Omari emphasized the need for independence. In addition, he noted that many issues, including salary increments, remain unresolved, and JSS teachers continue to feel overlooked.
Mr. Omari stressed the urgency of their situation, stating that the meager salary of Sh17,000 per month is not enough to meet the cost of living in Nairobi, particularly for rent. He called for an overhaul of the TSC, advocating for teachers to be included in its structure to ensure their welfare is adequately addressed.
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Union Representation and the Role of TSC
JSS teachers are also advocating for the formation of an independent union. They believe that the existing unions have failed to address their specific issues. Mr. Omari drew a parallel with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), both of which include practicing professionals within their respective fields. He argued that the TSC should similarly include teachers to better understand and cater to their needs.
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Senator Edwin Sifuna, who hosted the luncheon, expressed his support for the inclusion of teachers in the TSC. He reminded attendees that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) had pushed for this during the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), which aimed to reform various sectors. Sifuna also emphasized the need to form a Health Service Commission, although this proposal did not materialize. He urged teachers to continue advocating for their rights, assuring them that legislators would support their cause.
Addressing Teacher Welfare
During the event, the low remuneration of JSS teachers was a focal point. Mr. Sifuna criticized the current salary, saying that Sh17,000 cannot adequately cover basic needs in Nairobi. His sentiments were echoed by Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, and educationist Janet Ouko, all of whom stressed the critical role teachers play in society. They assured JSS teachers that they would continue advocating for better pay and working conditions.
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In addition to the pay issue, the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) raised concerns about the current structure of JSS. KESSHA Chairman Willy Kuria proposed that Grade 8 and 9 students should be moved to secondary schools. He pointed out that many primary schools lack the resources needed to support these grades effectively. Kuria promised to engage with the government to facilitate this transition, which he believes would be a positive step toward improving the learning environment for JSS students.
Key Takeaways
JSS teachers have made it clear that they will no longer stay silent about their challenges. They demand independence and better representation in the TSC, determined to improve their working conditions and meet their needs. Their calls for autonomy and higher pay focus not only on their welfare but also on providing better education for their students. With lawmakers like Senator Sifuna and MPs such as Mwenje and Wanyonyi backing them, they aim to resolve these issues, creating a more supportive and productive environment for both teachers and students.
JSS Teachers Advocate for Autonomy.
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