TSC, Kuppet reach deal to end teachers’ strike

In a significant development, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) have reached an agreement to end the industrial action that had paralysed learning activities across the country since the beginning of the third term. 

After a day-long meeting held on Monday, the two parties announced an amicable settlement through Alternative Dispute Resolution.

"The government has fulfilled its commitment to teachers by releasing funds for the implementation of the second phase of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), effective from July 1, 2024," said Dr Nancy Macharia, TSC CEO. 

"This marks a significant milestone in addressing the concerns raised by Kuppet, and we are pleased that teachers can now resume duty immediately."

The teachers' strike, which disrupted learning for millions of students, stemmed from grievances over delayed payments of the CBA. 

Despite an earlier attempt to avert the strikethrough talks held on August 21, 2024, teachers proceeded with industrial action, prompting today's high-level negotiations.

One of the major breakthroughs in the negotiations is the government's resolution of the long-standing issues raised by Kuppet, including third-party deductions, access to medical schemes, and competitive promotions. 

Dr Macharia confirmed that 51,232 teachers have already been promoted, and more will follow based on budgetary provisions.

Kuppet Secretary-General Akelo Misori lauded the progress made, acknowledging the government's efforts to address teachers' grievances. 

"We appreciate the TSC's commitment to resolving our issues. The promotion of teachers, restoration of medical funding, and transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) have all been addressed," said Mr Misori.

Another key issue discussed was the retooling of Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers to support the CBC implementation, with the government providing necessary resources to ensure smooth transitions.

With the industrial action now called off, TSC assured teachers that no punitive action would be taken against those who participated in the strike.

"We recognise the sacrifices our teachers have made, and no teacher will be victimised for standing up for their rights," Dr Macharia emphasised.

Looking ahead, both parties agreed to commence a new round of CBA negotiations once Kuppet submits its memorandum of demands. 

They also committed to resolving any remaining issues through continued dialogue, reinforcing the importance of maintaining healthy labour relations in the education sector.

As learning resumes across the country, TSC expressed its gratitude to the government under President William Ruto for providing the necessary resources amid a challenging economic environment. 

"We thank the government for prioritising the welfare of teachers and ensuring the smooth implementation of all teacher programs," concluded the TSC boss.

This agreement signals a return to normalcy in schools, offering relief to parents, students, and teachers alike, and demonstrating the power of dialogue in resolving labour disputes.