Classrooms to Go Dark- Teachers Issue 7-Day Strike Notice
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued a seven-day strike notice for all teachers nationwide. The union demands the government release over Ksh39 billion owed in school capitation and medical scheme remittances.
Teachers Threaten to Strike
While addressing the press on Friday, March 14, KUPPET officials warned that teachers would stop working if the government failed to act within a week. They accused the government of violating court orders and causing financial struggles for teachers across the country.
According to KUPPET, the return-to-work formula signed in August 2024 was a legally binding agreement. “The government is in defiance of court orders,” the union stated.
Breakdown of Unpaid Funds
KUPPET revealed that the government owes Ksh28 billion in school capitation and Ksh11 billion for the teachers’ medical scheme. They noted that only a small amount was released in September, leaving schools and teachers financially strained.
As a result, schools have been sending students home, despite government directives to keep them in class. In January, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba urged headteachers not to send students home over unpaid fees. He promised that Ksh14 billion would be disbursed soon, with more funds to follow.
However, KUPPET argues that instead of Ksh11,000 per student, the government has only disbursed Ksh4,000, making it difficult for schools to operate. “Many students are still at home because they were sent back after midterm to look for school fees,” union officials lamented.
Previous Teacher Strikes
This is not the first time teachers have taken industrial action over unpaid dues. In August 2024, KUPPET organized a one-week strike demanding the implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), promotions for teachers, and better employment terms for junior secondary teachers.
The strike ended after KUPPET and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) reached a deal. The agreement led to salary adjustments for teachers and the reinstatement of the teachers’ medical scheme. It was also filed in the Employment and Labour Relations Court, making it legally binding.
What Happens Next?
KUPPET has given the government until March 21 to release the funds. If the government fails to act, teachers will go on strike, potentially disrupting learning across the country once again.
Classrooms to Go Dark- Teachers Issue 7-Day Strike Notice
