The ongoing strike by the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has thrown the education sector into disarray, with schools across the country shutting down and sending students home. As the strike enters its second week, the frustration among parents, students, and the general public is growing, highlighting the critical need for resolution.
In Nakuru County, several schools, including Jomo Kenyatta Boys Secondary School, Jomo Kenyatta Girls’ Secondary School, Nakuru High School, and Meru Secondary School, have taken the drastic step of sending students home. With no teachers to guide and supervise them, these institutions have no choice but to close their doors, disrupting the learning process and putting the academic calendar at risk.
Parents are understandably dismayed by the government’s apparent inability to resolve the situation. Many have voiced their concerns, emphasizing the broader impact of the strike on the nation’s future. Ruth Muthoni, a concerned parent, pointed out the alarming trend of strikes affecting various sectors in the country. The ongoing teachers’ strike follows similar actions by doctors and other groups, raising questions about the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of its workforce.
The root of the strike lies in the teachers’ demand for promotions and recognition for those who have furthered their education. KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori highlighted the frustration of teachers who have remained in the same job groups despite upgrading their qualifications. The refusal of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to address these grievances has only fueled the teachers’ resolve, transforming what started as an industrial dispute into a broader struggle for justice and dignity.
The timing of the strike is particularly concerning, as it coincides with the crucial third term of the academic year, which is typically focused on preparation for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. The prolonged absence of teachers from classrooms could have severe consequences for students, especially those in public schools who are already disadvantaged compared to their peers in private institutions, where learning continues uninterrupted.
As the strike continues, the pressure is mounting on the government to act swiftly. Parents, like Paul Asike and Ruth Muthoni, are calling on President William Ruto and his administration to prioritize the education sector and find a solution that addresses the teachers’ demands while ensuring that students do not continue to bear the brunt of the impasse.
In conclusion, the ongoing KUPPET strike has highlighted significant issues within Kenya’s education system and the broader public sector. As the strike enters its second week, the need for a resolution becomes more urgent. The government’s response will not only determine the future of the current academic year but also reflect its commitment to addressing the concerns of its workforce and ensuring the stability of essential services.