Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers in Elgeyo Marakwet County are refusing to return to class, demanding permanent employment status and compensation for what they consider exploitation of their labor.
During a protest in Iten town, the teachers demanded increased government funding for the Ministry of Education. They believe this would allow for better compensation, considering their challenging working conditions and low salaries.
Stephen Kitum, the Elgeyo Marakwet County Secretary of the JSS Teachers’ Union, said that the internship was against the law. He also mentioned about how much these teachers are working and dealing with tough environment for learning. He insisted that they will not to go back to school until pleas and problems have been heard and actioned.
Norah Jepkurui also expressed similar feelings, stating that the teachers were wasted and misplaced. She claimed their labor rights had been undermined by asserting that the Commission did not grant maternity leave to female teachers as it should.