Kenya Junior School Teachers’ Association (KJSTA) officials have demanded that Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) operate independently from primary institutions, arguing that the current system stifles teacher development and weakens student support.
Interim chairperson James Odhiambo emphasised that more than 72,000 junior school during a press briefing held in Mombasa on Monday, September 1, 2025, that teachers remain uncertain about their careers because of inadequate resources, poor support systems, and an unclear professional progression framework.
He said that leaving junior schools under the leadership of primary school principals has created serious challenges.
“Primary school principals do not fully understand the unique needs of junior schools. This has left both teachers and students without the necessary facilities and resources. Autonomy is essential to establish proper laboratories and provide psychological support for adolescent learners,” Odhiambo explained.
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Treasurer Juma Jigi stressed that independence would also open doors for extracurricular advancement.
“At this stage, sports and talent development are vital. If junior schools had their own boards, budgets, and even a dedicated sports association, students would have equal opportunities in national competitions,” Jigi said.
The union also raised concerns over unfair promotion policies. Many teachers who have worked for one or two years as interns before being confirmed are still required to serve additional years before advancing up the job scale.
“We ask the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and Ministry of Education (MoE) to review this policy. Teachers who have already served as interns should not be required to restart their years of service after confirmation. It is unfair and demoralising,” Jigi said.
Officials further argued that recent promotions appear biased toward primary and senior secondary teachers, leaving JSS educators at a disadvantage.
“We are only asking for equal opportunities. If a teacher in job group C3 can advance, then junior school teachers should have the same chance,” he emphasised.
They warned that unless these issues are resolved quickly, KJSTA will not hesitate to seek legal remedies to protect the rights of junior school teachers.
By Joseph Mambili
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