The Meru County Government has officially launched the implementation of a new ECDE teachers’ Scheme of Service, marking a major milestone for early childhood education in the county.
Speaking to more than 1,700 ECDE teachers at Kinoru Stadium in Meru Town, Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma said the new scheme will ensure better and structured remuneration for teachers, translating into higher motivation and improved service delivery in early learning centres.
“The scheme also provides clear professional development pathways through promotions and enhanced retirement benefits, guaranteeing teachers greater job security and a dignified life after retirement,” noted Governor Mutuma.
Governor promises increased teachers
Governor Mutuma announced that salaries for ECDE teachers will be increased, adding that under his administration, the lowest-paid ECDE teacher will move from Job Group “D” to Job Group “F”.
He further revealed that the county government plans to recruit more ECDE teachers and construct additional ECDE classrooms at a cost of KSh. 74,350,000 in the current financial year.
“The move aims to reduce congestion in public early childhood centres across the county,” he said.
At the same time, the Governor acknowledged the food insecurity facing parts of the county due to crop failure. To cushion young learners, he announced that the county will roll out a school meals and nutrition programme targeting 63,946 learners in 784 public schools.
Igembe East Ward MCA, Murithi Muteria, lauded the county government for restoring dignity to ECDE teachers in Meru.
“For decades, ECDE teachers in the county have been neglected despite playing a critical role in shaping the foundation of a child’s education,” said Murithi.
By Jeff Mwangi
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