The Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers, (KUSNET) has strongly opposed the proposal made by the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to devolve the education sector, warning that devolution of education would cripple one of the best-managed sectors in the country.
They said that the move could undermine the gains made in the sector.
“If education is devolved, it will scuttle a sector that is among the few functioning properly,” said KUSNET Secretary General James Torome. “Counties have already failed in managing basic functions that were devolved. Entrusting them with education will be a disaster.”
Torome questioned the rationale behind Odinga’s proposal, noting that devolved units are already overwhelmed with financial constraints and governance issues.
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“It is ironical that at a time when counties are struggling to pay salaries and deliver services, anyone would think it wise to hand over education to them,” he said. “This is a sensitive and critical sector that requires consistent funding, stable management, and national standards.”
He also raised concerns over the potential transfer of teacher management from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to the counties, warning of dire consequences.
“Taking away the management of teachers from TSC will demoralize our educators. Many will exit the profession. We must not allow this to happen,” Torome cautioned.
The union has asked Raila Odinga to steer clear of the education docket, warning of possible industrial action if the proposal is implemented.
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“Odinga should keep off education matters. If this plan moves forward, teachers across the country will not hesitate to down their tools in protest,” he warned.
Raila Odinga made the proposal while addressing delegates at the Devolution Conference held in Homa Bay County, arguing that devolving education would help improve efficiency and accountability in the sector.
However, the backlash from a section of education stakeholders highlights the complex debate surrounding the devolution of key functions and the capacity of county governments to manage them effectively.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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