Nairobi: The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Homa Bay Branch has called on the government to immediately address challenges affecting Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers and other teaching staff. Speaking in Homa Bay, Branch Executive Secretary Stephen Yogo emphasized the plight of more than 20,000 JSS teachers who remain interns, facing financial difficulties due to insufficient salaries.
According to Kenya News Agency, Yogo highlighted that these interns are earning an average of Sh17,000 per month, a figure that leaves them struggling after loan and rent deductions. He urged the government to confirm these interns by January to prevent demoralization within the education workforce. Yogo stated, “We know the money they are getting is too little. After they pay loans and rent, they are left with very little to survive on. We are transitioning to Grade 10, and the government must motivate our teachers by confirming them.”
Additionally, Yogo called for autonomy within the JSS syste
m, suggesting the establishment of stand-alone JSS institutions or the transfer of JSS teachers to senior schools where they can utilize their training effectively. The union also voiced concerns over the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical scheme for teachers, noting that only one hospital, Oasis Doctors Plaza in Homa Bay town, is currently accredited to serve the large teaching population.
Yogo pointed out that the single facility is inadequate for the county’s 4,175 KUPPET members and approximately 9,000 primary school teachers, given the geographical challenges. He stated, “It is not possible for teachers in areas such as Miriu, Atela or Kobala to travel all the way to Homa Bay town for medical treatment.”
KUPPET Homa Bay Branch Chairperson Dr. Jack Odhiambo Okoth echoed these concerns, criticizing the government for prioritizing lecturers over interns amidst rising living costs. He urged the government to either confirm the teachers or increase their salaries to reflect their graduate status.
In
coming KUPPET Kisumu Branch Treasurer Sheryl Achieng described the current medical access situation as inconvenient, citing the necessity for teachers to seek approval before receiving treatment. She advocated for seamless medical services and emphasized the financial struggles faced by JSS teachers.
Union leaders maintained that the confirmation of JSS teachers by January is crucial, highlighting the significant role educators play in shaping future professions and urging the government to act swiftly to improve their conditions.