The Nandi Branch of KUPPET has raised the alarm over rising cases of mental health illnesses among teachers in the county.
Branch Executive Secretary Paul Rotich said the problem has reached alarming levels, with a negative impact on the quality of education.
Speaking during a mental awareness forum in Kapsabet, he noted that most disciplinary cases are due to mental health problems, with many tutors turning to alcoholism.
“Most disciplinary cases in our county are due to mental health problems, with many tutors turning to alcoholism. This is worrying and urgent action should be taken,” he said.
He also cited gambling as a challenge where many teachers, having lost thousands of shillings on gaming, fall into depression.
Rotich urged teachers battling mental health to come out, revealing that four are currently admitted in various rehabilitation centres in the county.
“I urged teachers battling mental health and even family problems to come out. We have four teachers currently admitted in various rehabilitation centres in the county. Alcoholism is a disease like any other and any teacher trapped in such a problem needs help, not disciplinary action,” added Rotich, urging teachers to care for one another and promising to offer the necessary support.
With over 3,000 teachers in the county attending the forum, the union called for the establishment of comprehensive support systems to enable them to cope with the rising mental health challenges occasioned by financial, family and work problems.
YOU MAY ALSO READ:
Protests interrupt learning as worried parents keep children at home
By Kimutai Lang’at
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
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
