Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers in the North Rift region have expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding their employment status.
This, even as their contracts are set to lapse at the end of this month and no clear communication on renewal.
Led by Mercy Jeptoo, the teachers called on the Ministry of Education to clarify their position, saying the silence has left them confused and anxious.
Speaking in Kapsabet town, Jeptoo said the teachers were initially hired on a one-year contract, which has since been extended to two years without proper consultation.
“We were employed on a one-year contract, but the government went ahead to extend it to two years. This was done without clarity, and we find it unacceptable,” Jeptoo said.
READ ALSO:
Grade 10 placement: What parents and learners should know before requesting revisions
She warned that the extension could create inequality among teachers and lead to discrimination within the education system.
“This extension will definitely result in disparity and discrimination among teachers. The issue needs to be addressed urgently before it affects service delivery,” she added.
Jeptoo urged the Ministry of Education to come out clearly on whether the contracts will be renewed or whether the teachers will be absorbed on permanent terms.
“We just want clarity. Teachers cannot work effectively when they are unsure about their future,” she noted.
Another teacher, Joyline Jelagat, called for the recruitment of more Junior Secondary School teachers, saying current staffing levels are inadequate.
“Parents and learners deserve value for their taxes. The government must hire more teachers to ensure learners get the attention they need,” Jelagat said.
The teachers emphasised that their concerns go beyond job security, noting that quality education should remain the top priority.
“We are interested in quality education, not just learners passing through the system. Proper staffing and motivated teachers are key to achieving this,” Jelagat added.
The teachers are now appealing to the Ministry of Education to urgently address the matter to avoid disruption of learning in Junior Secondary Schools across the North Rift region.
By Kimutai Langat
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
