In a bold move, Kenyan teachers have come together to outline a series of demands aimed at improving their working conditions and ensuring fair treatment in the education sector. Under the banner of “NO MORE NO LESS,” the teachers have specified four key demands that they believe are crucial for their professional and personal well-being. The demands include the confirmation of intern teachers into permanent and pensionable (PnP) terms, the full implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the complete funding of the teachers’ medical scheme, and significant changes to the Teachers’ Payment and Attendance System (T-PAY).
1. Confirmation of 46,000 Intern Teachers into PnP Terms
One of the primary demands is the confirmation of 46,000 intern teachers into permanent and pensionable terms. The intern teachers have played a vital role in addressing the teacher shortage in Kenya, especially in remote and underserved areas. However, despite their significant contributions, these teachers remain in precarious positions with temporary contracts that offer little job security or benefits.
Teachers’ unions argue that confirming these intern teachers into PnP terms is not just a matter of fairness but also a strategic move to ensure stability and continuity in the education sector. By securing permanent positions, these teachers can focus on delivering quality education without the constant worry of contract renewals or potential unemployment. This move would also be a recognition of their dedication and hard work, reinforcing the importance of investing in the teaching workforce for the long-term benefit of the nation’s education system.
2. Full Implementation of the 2021-2025 CBA with July Arrears
Another critical demand is the full implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) as amended in August 2023, along with the payment of July arrears. The CBA, negotiated between the teachers’ unions and the government, outlines various improvements in teachers’ salaries, allowances, and working conditions. However, the unions have expressed frustration over the delayed and incomplete implementation of the agreed terms.
Teachers are calling for the immediate enforcement of the CBA to ensure that they receive the promised salary increases and other benefits. The payment of July arrears is particularly important, as it represents a significant financial commitment that the teachers have been waiting for. This demand highlights the need for the government to honor its commitments and provide teachers with the financial recognition they deserve.
3. Full Capitation of Teachers’ Medical Scheme or Revert Medical Allowance
Healthcare is a fundamental concern for teachers, and the demand for the full capitation of the teachers’ medical scheme underscores the importance of comprehensive medical coverage. The current medical scheme, while beneficial, has faced issues related to insufficient funding and coverage gaps. Teachers are calling for the scheme to be fully funded to ensure that they have access to quality healthcare services without financial strain.
Alternatively, teachers propose reverting to a medical allowance that is included in their payslips. This allowance would provide teachers with the flexibility to manage their healthcare needs independently. The demand for a well-funded medical scheme or a reliable medical allowance is driven by the need to safeguard teachers’ health and well-being, recognizing that healthy teachers are essential for delivering quality education.
4. Permanent Entry/Exit Button in T-PAY and Voluntary Union Membership
The final demand focuses on the Teachers’ Payment and Attendance System (T-PAY). Teachers are advocating for the introduction of a permanent Entry/Exit button in the T-PAY system, which would streamline the process of recording attendance and reduce administrative burdens. This improvement aims to enhance the efficiency of the system, allowing teachers to focus more on their instructional duties rather than bureaucratic tasks.
Additionally, teachers are calling for voluntary union membership as required by law. This demand emphasizes the importance of respecting teachers’ rights to freely choose their union affiliations without coercion or mandatory deductions. Voluntary union membership would empower teachers to align themselves with unions that genuinely represent their interests and advocate for their rights effectively.
Conclusion
The “NO MORE NO LESS” campaign by Kenyan teachers highlights a comprehensive set of demands that address key issues affecting their professional lives. By focusing on job security, fair compensation, healthcare, and administrative efficiency, teachers are advocating for improvements that will not only benefit them but also contribute to a more stable and effective education system. The government and relevant stakeholders are urged to engage in constructive dialogue with teachers’ unions to address these demands and work towards a mutually beneficial resolution. The successful resolution of these issues will be a testament to the commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Kenya and ensuring that teachers receive the recognition and support they deserve.
