A section of Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers has raised alarm over what they describe as an “unfair and painful” decision to extend their internship period beyond the originally agreed one year.
In an emotional open letter circulating widely on social media, the group—identified as JSS Science Interns: Voices of Intern Teachers in Kenya—urges the President to intervene and honour the initial terms of their engagement.
According to the letter, the interns claim they signed contracts that clearly indicated their internship would last a maximum of 12 months.
However, they now say they have been informed that they will be required to serve an additional year before they can be considered for permanent employment.
“Our President — the same President we supported, the President we elected with millions of votes — is now telling us that we must take another year of internship,” the statement reads in part.
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The teachers express deep disappointment, stating that many of them feel betrayed after placing trust in the government’s promise of fair employment transition.
Mixing English and Swahili, the authors question why they are being subjected to what they term as unnecessary suffering.
“Mr. President… what wrong? Tulifanya makosa gani walimu mbona tunadhulumiwa lakini I know sisi ni wanyonge Mr. President but this is too much,” the letter laments.
The message, accompanied by images of distressed young adults, has sparked conversation online, with many Kenyans weighing in on the plight of intern teachers who have been advocating for improved terms since the rollout of the JSS system.
The group concludes with an appeal for solidarity among teachers and a plea for government action, emphasizing that they are simply seeking the rights and dignity they were promised.
By Our Reporter
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