KUPPET Elgeyo Marakwet intensifies push for full autonomy of Junior Secondary Schools

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) West Pokot has intensified push for the full autonomy of Junior Secondary Schools.

Led by Chairperson Abraham Bett, the newly elected KUPPET officials are demanding the establishment of a distinct administrative framework for JSS, independent of the primary schools where the new learning level is currently domiciled.

The Union officials argued that autonomy would help address challenges currently facing teachers, including differences between JSS educators and their counterparts in Comprehensive Schools.

Speaking in Iten, Bett said the existing arrangement has negatively impacted teachers’ performance.

“Junior Secondary School teachers are facing numerous challenges because they are domiciled in primary schools. The structure is not clear, and this affects service delivery,” Bett stated.

He pointed out that the structure of the education system further complicates matters.

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“Senior Secondary and JSS each have three classes, while primary school has six classes. Placing them together under one administration creates confusion and unnecessary disputes,” He said.

The officials argued that the government’s decision to place JSS under primary school management has led to widespread confusion, particularly in school administration, sports, and co-curricular activities.

“There is confusion in leadership, resource allocation, and even in organizing co-curricular activities. JSS needs its own leadership and structures to operate effectively,” Bett added.

The teachers reiterated that JSS should be recognized as an independent entity with its own administration, resources, and curriculum focus.

“Full autonomy will strengthen both curricular and co-curricular activities tailored to the unique needs of Junior Secondary learners,” Bett said. “We want a system that allows teachers to perform optimally and learners to benefit fully from the new education structure.”

KUPPET officials now want the government to move swiftly and streamline the management of JSS to eliminate the confusion currently being experienced in schools across the country.

By Kimutai Langat