The Kenya Junior School Teachers Association (KEJUSTA) has faulted the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) for what it calls continued disregard for the plight of Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers following the controversial domiciling of JSS into primary schools under the Comprehensive School Model.
In a strongly-worded statement issued in Nairobi, KEJUSTA said the policy shift has undermined the integrity of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), blurred institutional identity, and exposed JSS teachers to administrative discrimination.
KEJUSTA National Chairperson Okil Okil said the current arrangement has severely compromised the JSS system, dismissing KNUT’s support for the model.
“The forced amalgamation of JSS with primary schools has erased the unique role of Junior Secondary as a crucial transition stage,” Okil said.
He added, “It negates the developmental intent of the CBC and subjects JSS teachers to unfair subordination.”
The chairman further criticised KNUT for failing to defend educators undergoing challenges under the model.
“True leadership is not about endorsing convenient policies, but defending sound education principles. KNUT must align its advocacy with the real needs of teachers and learners,” he added.
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On his part, KEJUSTA Secretary General Paul Wakhungu echoed similar sentiments, insisting that JSS must operate as an independent level within the basic education structure.
“Junior Secondary must be granted full autonomy. We are dealing with adolescent learners who require an environment tailored to their age, curriculum, and psychosocial needs,” Wakhungu said.
He noted:“Merging JSS into primary schools has created confusion, compromised quality, and lowered professional standards.”
The SG further said KEJUSTA is pursuing legal and constitutional avenues to restore institutional independence for JSS.
“We will continue with our High Court petition to secure proper recognition and protect both learners and teachers,” Wakhungu affirmed.
The association called on the Ministry of Education and stakeholders to urgently review the policy and protect the integrity of the competency-based education system.
By Our reporter
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