- KUPPET has expressed concern over what it describes as increasing political interference in the management of schools in Homa Bay County.
- The union says school administration should remain the responsibility of professional educators and legally constituted management bodies.
- It has urged political leaders to promote unity and support education without interfering in institutional governance.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has raised concern over what it describes as increasing political interference in the management of schools in Homa Bay County.
Branch Chairperson Peter Otieno said the union is worried by attempts by some politicians to influence decisions in learning institutions, warning that the trend could undermine effective school administration.
Addressing journalists in Homa Bay Town, Otieno said schools should be managed by professional educators and legally constituted education bodies without political interference.
“We have witnessed increasing attempts by politicians to interfere with the administration of schools. Such actions undermine the authority of teachers, Boards of Management and other education stakeholders who are legally mandated to oversee school affairs,” he said.
He noted that continued political interference could strain relationships between teachers and local communities while disrupting the smooth management of schools.
Call for unity
Otieno urged political leaders to focus on supporting education rather than influencing institutional management.
“I want to appeal to the political class to embrace unity. Politicians should tone down divisive rhetoric and create a conducive environment for our children and for schools to thrive,” he said.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the independence of learning institutions and called on all leaders to respect the professional roles of teachers, principals and Boards of Management in the governance of schools.
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KUPPET maintained that strong collaboration among education stakeholders remains essential for improving learning outcomes and maintaining stability within schools.
By Kimutai Langat
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