MCA demands better pay, timely allowances for teachers handling national exams

Kapsoit MCA Paul Tarimbo has appealed to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) to improve the remuneration of teachers engaged in national examination administration and ensure they are paid promptly for their work.

Tarimbo said teachers play a critical role in supervising national examinations and should be treated with dignity, arguing that the current payment rates and prolonged delays in compensation undermine their contribution to the education sector.

Speaking after a breakfast meeting with KUPPET Secretary Claire Chebet, Tarimbo said the country was preparing for the national examinations and urged KNEC to address teachers’ concerns over examination-related duties.

He criticised the reported payment of Sh50 per examination script, describing the rate as unfair and unacceptable given the responsibilities shouldered by teachers during the examination period.

“Paying teachers Sh50 per script is modern-day slavery. Paying them one year after examinations is an abuse of our teachers and a big no,” Tarimbo said.

MCA urges KNEC to review examination allowances

The MCA called on KNEC Chief Executive Officer Dr David Njengere to prioritise teachers’ welfare by reviewing examination allowances and ensuring payments are made within a reasonable period after the exercise.

He maintained that teachers deserve fair compensation for the time, effort and professional responsibility required to administer national examinations, noting that timely payment would demonstrate respect for their service.

Tarimbo’s appeal comes as education stakeholders prepare for the national examination season, when thousands of teachers are deployed to oversee the administration of examinations across the country.

Teachers’ examination duties include supervising candidates, enforcing examination regulations and helping safeguard the integrity and credibility of national assessments.

Teachers deserve fair compensation, says Tarimbo

The MCA said the contribution of teachers to the examination process should not be taken for granted, urging KNEC to engage relevant stakeholders and develop a payment system that reflects the importance of their work.

He said respect for teachers must go beyond public recognition to include fair remuneration and prompt settlement of allowances for duties performed.

KNEC is responsible for administering national examinations and assessments, with teachers playing a central role in ensuring the process is conducted in accordance with established regulations.