Over 1,500 teachers specializing in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) in Kiambu County have jointly submitted a petition to the County Assembly citing concerns about work conditions and various grievances. The petition, presented by Lawrence Mwaura, the chair of the education committee brings attention to challenges faced by these educators.
Key Grievances
- Nepotism and Favoritism:
- The teachers claim that promotions within the ECDE sector are unfairly influenced by favoritism than considering factors like years of service and academic qualifications.
- Harassment and Intimidation:
- Instances of harassment, intimidation and threats from program officers and other officials in the education department are detailed in the petition whenever teachers raise their issues.
- Unfair Transfers and Demotions:
- Unjust transfers that overlook locations and experience leading to stress and uncertainty among teachers.
- Demotions lacking justification have also affected the morale of teachers negatively.
Background
According to the Constitution of Kenya 2010’s Fourth Schedule, primary education provision and child care facility management fall under county governments jurisdiction. Despite this mandate ECDE teachers in Kiambu County feel that these responsibilities are not being handled professionally by the countys education department.
Teachers’ Appeal
The educators express their discontent with how their concerns are being addressed by the county government. They look forward to an investigation by the County Assembly into their complaints with hopes, for recommendations that would enhance their working environment. Efforts made in the past to deal with these issues through discussions, with the county government have not yielded results.
Government Response
In March of last year, Governor Kimani Wamatangi had made commitments to enhance the working conditions of ECDE teachers by offering improved packages, salaries and benefits. The aim was to inspire the teachers and support their development. Nevertheless according to the petition it seems that these commitments have not been honored yet leading the teachers to request assistance, from the County Assembly.