Nyando: The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has reassured its members that it will continue holding talks with the national government to address key issues affecting teachers across the country. Speaking during the Nyando KNUT Annual General Meeting at Awasi PAG grounds, Secretary General, Collins Oyuu, said the union remains focused on championing the rights and welfare of teachers.
According to Kenya News Agency, Oyuu noted that the current political environment is favourable for sustained engagement between KNUT and the government. He revealed that the union has already presented several concerns to President William Ruto, adding that these issues will be progressively addressed. Among the priority areas, he highlighted the timely release and possible increase of capitation funds.
Accompanied by other national officials, Oyuu emphasized that trainee teachers who have been out of service for years will be prioritized in upcoming recruitments for educators. He further urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to establish wellness centres to support the mental and physical well-being of teachers.
Addressing the acute teacher shortage in many schools, Oyuu said the government is expected to recruit more educators to ease the burden on the existing staff. KNUT national second vice chairman, Aggrey Namisi, also spoke during the event, recalling the union’s difficult financial period in 2021, which discouraged members from contesting leadership positions.
Namisi criticized those who abandoned the union at its lowest moment, saying their actions are well remembered. ‘Some of us went for thirty months without pay,’ he said, emphasizing the resilience of members who remained committed through the hardship.