The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has demanded the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to grant permanent and pensionable status to Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers currently serving on internship basis.
Speaking during protests staged by JSS teachers at Kanduyi NG-CDF offices in Bungoma, KUPPET Chairman David Barasa expressed frustration on behalf of the teachers, deeming it unfair to those on internship contracts.
Barasa criticized the practice of politicians issuing employment letters to recent graduates while overlooking those who have been waiting for employment for an extended period.
He further emphasized the importance of adhering to the norm where teachers who graduated earlier should be given priority in employment.
Barasa called upon the KUPPET national office, led by Secretary General Akello Misori and Chairman Omboko Milemba, to swiftly address the matter and engage with the TSC to secure permanent and pensionable terms for all JSS teachers.
“This call for action extends beyond Bungoma, as JSS teachers in Trans-Nzoia, Narok, Vihiga, and Kericho counties are similarly demanding inclusion on permanent terms by the TSC,” he stated.
Highlighting the potential consequences of continued frustration, Barasa warned that young teachers might choose to leave the teaching profession, contributing to a future shortage of educators.
He also pointed out the challenges of integrating JSS into primary sections, citing a lack of infrastructure to support the practical aspects of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Barasa underscored the seriousness of KUPPET’s stance on the JSS issue and announced plans to submit a memorandum to the County TSC director in Bungoma, emphasizing the need for urgent action on behalf of JSS teachers across the country.
He also noted that there are 793 JSS centers with 1,586 teachers.
By Tony Wafula
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