Teachers Living with Disabilities (PWDs) aspiring for leadership positions in the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) have appealed to the union’s national office to consider reducing the nomination fee for the 2nd Assistant Secretary Gender (PWD) position from Sh50,000 to a more reasonable amount.
The teachers argue that the high nomination fee presents a serious financial barrier to those who are qualified and eager to serve but lack the means to raise such an amount.
They noted that most teachers living with disabilities face unique social, financial, and mobility challenges that already make their day-to-day lives more demanding compared to their counterparts.
According to one of the aspirants for the position, reducing the nomination fee would go a long way in promoting equity, inclusion, and fair representation within the union’s leadership.
The aspirant emphasized that KUPPET, as a representative body of educators, should lead by example in upholding the principles of equality and accessibility for all its members, including those living with disabilities.
“Many teachers with disabilities have the passion and capacity to lead, but the current financial demands discourage participation. Lowering the nomination fee would demonstrate KUPPET’s commitment to inclusivity and empower PWD teachers to take part in shaping the union’s future,” said the aspirant.
The call comes ahead of the upcoming KUPPET elections, where various members are preparing to contest different leadership positions.
The PWD teachers say this is a crucial moment for the union to show that it values diversity and equal opportunity by removing structural barriers that hinder participation.
They have urged the National Executive Board to review the current fee structure, taking into account the unique circumstances faced by members with disabilities.
The teachers further appealed to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, as well as disability rights organizations, to support initiatives that promote inclusivity within professional unions and associations.
If granted, the proposed review would mark a significant step toward ensuring that all teachers ,regardless of physical ability or economic background have an equal voice and representation within KUPPET’s decision-making structures,
The union polls is slated for early next year.
By our reporter
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