The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Embu County has given the government a seven-day ultimatum to remit their health insurance deductions to hospitals.
While addressing a press conference in Embu town, they lamented the severe hardship they are facing due to unpaid remittances, which have left them without access to essential health services.
Led by branch secretary Jacob Karura, the teachers painted a grim picture of their current reality saying they were being denied medical services due to the unpaid deductions, many resorting to organising fundraisers, known locally as harambees, to cover their medical expenses.
“We have written to the Teachers Service Commission about this matter, but we have received no response. Our teachers are suffering, and if the government does not heed our call, we will have no choice but to take to the streets in protest,” said Karura.
READ ALSO:
15 minors among suspects charged in court for looting Naivasha’s Naivas Supermarket
Eric Kimwere who is also an official for the KUPPET echoed Karura’s sentiments highlighting the mental anguish that the situation has caused to teacher, describing it as an added layer of suffering for already overburdened educators.
“The mental trauma we are experiencing is unimaginable. We dedicate our lives to teaching the next generation, yet we are forced to beg for basic health services,” Kimwere stated, his voice filled with frustrations.
The countdown has begun. With seven days on the clock, the teachers of Embu County are holding their breath, hoping that their pleas will not fall on deaf ears. Their story is one of resilience and determination, a testament to their unwavering commitment to their profession and their rights. As the days tick by, the nation watches, waiting to see if the government will step up and fulfill its obligations.
They said that the health and morale of the teachers are at stake, and with the frustrations they might paralyze learning.
The teachers have called on the government to address their grievances to secure the lives of teachers.
Embu KUPPET Secretary General (left) Jacob Karura together with other officials address press in Embu town.
By Brian Kaleti
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
