The Kenya Post Primary Education Teachers Union (KUPPET) has delivered a fresh ultimatum to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), pressing for immediate resolution of persistent concerns, with warnings that inaction could severely disrupt educational operations.
Speaking during a post-election meeting on Saturday, May 16, KUPPET officials presented a list of demands, notably the swift promotion of thousands of teachers who have remained in identical positions for years despite decades of service.
The union is requesting TSC to publicize promotion opportunities for approximately 135,000 educators who, according to KUPPET, have experienced career stagnation in their current job groups, with some reportedly waiting as long as 30 years for advancement.
“We cannot tolerate teachers remaining stagnant for extended periods without promotions. Some serve for 30 years before advancing to the D5 job group. We seek reduction of this timeframe to achieve equality,” stated KUPPET National Vice Chairperson Julius Korir.
Additionally, the union is advocating for the confirmation of 44,000 intern teachers into permanent and pensionable positions, emphasizing that ongoing delays are negatively impacting staff morale and school performance nationwide.
KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori also called for accelerated implementation, stressing that the second phase of the agreement must be fully executed by July 2027.
“The commission must guarantee teachers that the second phase of the 2025-2029 CBA, signed last year, is implemented by July 2027,” Misori emphasized.
The organization has also firmly rejected TSC proposals to reduce hardship allowances, warning that any modifications to the current framework would provoke widespread opposition from educators throughout the country.
“We are hearing that you intend to alter our hardship allowances despite agreements established through legal notices with TSC. Do not consider or contemplate such sudden changes,” Korir added.
These demands emerge as TSC has already revealed plans to promote only 30,000 teachers this year, a significant decrease from the previously expected 50,000 positions.
The reduction has triggered dissatisfaction among teachers, particularly following increased funding in the education budget intended to support broader promotional opportunities.
Educators have also expressed frustration regarding stagnant career progression, with many asserting that the current system has created inequality and discontent within the teaching profession.
Collectively, these issues have led teachers to declare that unless TSC addresses their concerns, they will be compelled to initiate substantial industrial action against their employer.