Kuppet Urges TSC to Resolve Ongoing Teachers’ Strike Amicably.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) has taken a significant step toward resolving the ongoing teachers’ strike. On August 29, 2024, Kuppet formally reached out to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), expressing a preference for dialogue over court battles. The union’s appeal comes as tensions rise among educators nationwide, and both sides face mounting pressure to find a solution.
In its letter to TSC, Kuppet emphasized the importance of resolving the strike through peaceful negotiations. The union expressed its desire to avoid prolonged legal disputes, which could further strain relations between teachers and their employers. Kuppet highlighted the fast-evolving nature of the strike and urged TSC to engage in discussions to prevent unnecessary conflict. The letter, referenced as COUP/TSC/019/24, was addressed to TSC Chief Executive Dr. Nancy Macharia.
Kuppet reassured TSC of its commitment to following the law and its readiness to tackle the issues at hand constructively. The union proposed a meeting with TSC on August 29, 2024, to discuss a mutually beneficial resolution. Kuppet emphasized that teachers were eager to resolve the ongoing issues fairly and respectfully.
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This move marks a shift from Kuppet’s previous stance, where the union defied a Labour Court order that had suspended the strike. On Wednesday, Kuppet had urged its members to continue boycotting classes despite the court’s directive. The union’s call for defiance had led to clashes, with some striking teachers confronting colleagues who chose to remain in classrooms.
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The situation escalated on Sunday when a division emerged within the teaching fraternity. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut), Kuppet’s counterpart, withdrew its notice of a strike just hours after Kuppet had voted to endorse the job boycott. This sudden shift by Knut introduced further complexity into the situation, as both unions had initially planned to strike simultaneously. The industrial action was a response to unresolved issues, including pay discrepancies, delayed promotions, and poor working conditions.
Knut’s Secretary-General, Collins Oyuu, explained that their decision to withdraw the strike notice was motivated by the need to give TSC time to address their concerns. Despite this move, Kuppet maintained its position and proceeded with the strike, increasing tensions among teachers and their unions.
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Kuppet’s demands include the implementation of the second phase of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the promotion of teachers, the permanent absorption of Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers, and the reinstatement of their medical cover. The union remains firm in its stance, arguing that these issues must be addressed promptly to ensure the well-being of teachers across the country.
As Kuppet reaches out to TSC for dialogue, the future of the ongoing teachers’ strike remains uncertain. The union’s willingness to negotiate reflects a desire to resolve the conflict without further escalation. However, with the High Court suspending the strike pending a hearing, the path forward may still involve legal battles. Both sides now face a crucial moment where cooperation and compromise could pave the way for a resolution that benefits all parties involved.
Kuppet Urges TSC to Resolve Ongoing Teachers’ Strike Amicably.
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