Education Principal Secretary Prof Julius Bitok has assured teachers that the government will review the proposal to scrap hardship allowances, following widespread protests and concerns from unions.
Speaking in Eldama Ravine, he said the government had taken note of teachers’ grievances. He added that educators play a critical role in national development and must be supported.
Teachers are the backbone of our education system. They should not be made to suffer, especially in areas facing security and infrastructure challenges,” said Bitok.
His remarks come amid strong opposition to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) ’s plan to delist parts of the North Rift and Elgeyo Marakwet as hardship areas.
Earlier, while addressing students at St. Andrews Senetwo in Tinderet, Nandi County, the PS said Kenya is now transitioning from the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to Competency-Based Education (CBE) — a model focused more on skills, flexibility, and learner pace.
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Elgeyo Marakwet teachers protest scrapping of hardship allowance
He urged students to stay focused on their studies and avoid immoral behaviour, stating that the government had invested over KSh 700 billion to improve education infrastructure and quality.
“We have made massive investments in education. Students must now rise to the challenge and make the most of these opportunities,” Bitok said.
Parliamentary Education Committee Chairperson Julius Melly, who accompanied the PS, echoed the sentiments, saying hardship allowances must be retained to motivate and retain teachers in remote and rugged areas.
“This allowance is not a privilege but necessary for teachers working under tough conditions. Scrapping it would hurt the education sector,” said Melly.
Competency-based education (CBE) focuses on students mastering specific skills and knowledge rather than just completing a set curriculum. It emphasises individualised learning, where students advance at their own pace based on their ability to demonstrate proficiency.
By Kimutai Langat
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