Hundreds of ECDE teachers gathered at the Friends Yearly Meeting grounds in Vihiga County on Saturday, June 6, 2026, for a thanksgiving ceremony organised by the Kenya Union of Pre-Primary Education Teachers (KUNOPPET) to celebrate major milestones achieved after years of industrial action, court battles, and advocacy.
Addressing the gathering, KUNOPPET Vihiga Branch Executive Secretary Zipporah Mutuku recalled the difficult period when ECDE teachers were removed from the payroll for six months after demanding better working conditions.
“We remained united under KUNOPPET, believing that justice would eventually prevail,” she said, noting that teachers were later reinstated through a court order.
Mutuku said one of the union’s greatest achievements has been its growth, with 764 of the 830 ECDE teachers employed by the County Government of Vihiga now registered as KUNOPPET members. She also highlighted the expansion of VICETWE Welfare, which now has more than 600 members and supports the welfare needs of ECDE teachers across the county.
Court victory
The branch secretary further celebrated the landmark court victory secured by ECDE teachers on December 4, 2025, saying it paved the way for the payment of arrears backdated to 2023, the implementation of SRC recommendations, and the payment of three years’ gratuity.
She revealed that gratuity has already been paid to the vast majority of teachers, with fewer than six cases remaining due to bounced payments and incorrect account details.
Mutuku expressed optimism that the remaining payments, including benefits for Batch Two beneficiaries, SRC implementation, and salary arrears, would be realised soon.
She thanked KUNOPPET Secretary General Samuel Opiyo, the national office, the legal team, and members who remained steadfast throughout the struggle.
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“As we look ahead, our work is not yet complete. We shall continue advocating for better terms and conditions of service, full implementation of agreements, improved welfare, professional growth opportunities, and the recognition that ECDE teachers deserve as the foundation of education,” she said.
By Staff Reporter
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