By Lydia Ngoolo
Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Mwingi branch executive secretary Michael Mbutu has called upon teachers to open up when faced by stress. He was reacting following the escalating number of suicide cases in the country.
Speaking after a recent reported case of Wikithuki primary school head teacher Jacob Nguli committed suicide in his Ithumbi home, Mbutu talked of how sad it was for a teacher to lose his/her life due to depression.
The leader also urged teachers to be vigilant and to report cases of depression among colleagues adding that the only way to ensure lives are saved is if the affected teachers get guidance and counseling.
The late Nguli hanged himself on his bedroom using a sisal rope and left a suicide note indicating that his wife was frustrating him and that he could no longer take it.
The deceased had served for over ten years working hard to become a senior teacher. He was good at sports and nurtured many youth.
‘The union will work together with TSC to ensure teachers are guided and counseled accordingly.’ Mbutu said.
Mbutu pointed out that another reason why teachers are depressed is delocalization.
He added that if possible, the age factor should be considered since leaving behind young families for young teachers could be very stressful.
“The policy should be reconsidered since it’s not helpful to teachers. A weak family weakens the nation,” he added.
