Former Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui has urged the government to grant Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers complete stand-alone school wings, arguing that autonomy is key to effective curriculum delivery, staff motivation, and the proper support of teenage learners.
Tonui, who also serves as the Vice-Treasurer of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), said JSS should operate independently, both structurally and administratively, to fully implement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
He noted that the current system has left many JSS teachers stagnating without opportunities for promotion to senior positions such as principals, deputies, or heads of department.
“Right now, JSS teachers are stagnating. Without clear structures, many cannot be promoted to principals, deputies, or senior teacher positions. This is unfair to professionals who have invested in training and are dedicated to their work,” Tonui said.
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He said JSS learners are at a sensitive developmental stage and require teachers who are specifically trained to handle the current generation.
“Secondary school teachers are equipped with skills to handle adolescents socially, emotionally, and academically. We must reflect this reality in the management of JSS,” said Tonui.
Tonui said the stand-alone for JSS teachers would ease management, reduce workplace tensions, and make them accountable.
“Allowing them to stand alone is not just about teachers’ welfare, it’s about protecting both teachers and the learners,” he added.
According to the unionist, the current system is not motivating staff and undermining the success of the CBC.
He added: “If we truly want the CBC to succeed, we must give these teachers the environment and authority they need to do their work effectively.”
Tonui noted that distinct management would also improve resource allocation and accountability.
“With a separate vote head and clear reporting lines, it becomes easier to distribute resources equitably and to monitor performance. This is how we build strong schools and better results,” he explained.
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The debate on where JSS should be domiciled has sharply divided education stakeholders, with some teacher unions and parents’ associations supporting primary administration, while others advocate for full transfer to secondary schools and other autonomy of these teachers.
Tonui’s remarks add weight to growing calls from education stakeholders and the Ministry of Education to review its stand.
Recently, more than 50,000 JSS tutors have staged protests and advocacy campaigns across the country, citing frustrations over overlapping administrative duties, unequal resource allocation, limited professional growth, and minimal influence in policy decisions affecting junior secondary education.
The teachers cite challenges such as overlapping administrative duties, unequal allocation of resources, limited professional growth opportunities, and minimal influence in policy decisions affecting junior secondary education.
By our reporter
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