With just days before schools reopen for the third term, the nation faces a looming teachers’ strike, set for August 26, driven by unresolved issues tied to the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Teachers’ unions, KNUT and KUPPET, are united in their demand for salary increases, overdue promotions, and the hiring of more teachers to address chronic understaffing. Despite multiple rounds of negotiations, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has been unable to satisfy the unions’ demands, resulting in the issuance of a strike notice that could potentially disrupt the education system as students return to classrooms.

In response to this looming industrial action, President William Ruto has mandated the National Treasury, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, to engage in expedited negotiations with the TSC and union representatives. Simultaneously, Julius Migosi, the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Education, has been tasked with coordinating efforts to reach an amicable resolution. The President’s directive underscores the government’s recognition of the severe legal and educational ramifications that could ensue if the strike proceeds. However, the perceived sluggishness in the government’s response has raised concerns about its compliance with both domestic labor laws and international conventions on the right to education, as enshrined in various legal frameworks.

To forestall a nationwide strike that could disrupt the academic calendar and potentially violate students’ rights to uninterrupted education, the government must prioritize legally binding negotiations with the unions. It is imperative to address the unions’ claims in a manner consistent with the Employment Act and the terms of the CBA, ensuring that any agreements are enforceable and adhered to in a timely fashion. Additionally, the involvement of broader stakeholders, including legal experts, parents’ associations, and international education bodies, could provide a more robust framework for resolving the dispute. As the situation escalates, the government’s actions—or inactions—will be closely scrutinized both legally and ethically, with potential consequences for its adherence to national and international labor standards.

References:

The Star Teachers’ strike looms as Knut issues fresh seven-day notice

Capital News President Ruto directs Treasury to negotiate with TSC ahead of planned Teachers strike

The Standard Education CS silent as teachers, lecturers threaten to strike

Nation Knut top body endorses August 26 strike as Ruto moves to avert crisis

The Standard Ruto directs Mbadi to avert looming strike by teachers, dons

The Star KUPPET issues demands ahead of planned teachers’ strike

Nation Education CS should seek to avert strikes