The recent declaration by the Teachers Service Commission—TSC—concerning the Sh10 billion budget cut and its subsequent impact on teachers’ salaries and medical cover has caused widespread outrage among educators nationwide against the same. Teachers are frustrated and apprehensive over the financial and professional implications that come with these changes.
Disappointment Over Unfulfilled Promises
Teachers had been expecting a salary raise by the end of July 2024 under the second phase of the 2021-2025 amended Collective Bargain Agreement. Many have been left feeling sold out after news hit that the adjustments are untenable under the current budget constraints. John Kamau, a primary school teacher in Nairobi, said:
“I was counting on the wage increase to help with the rising cost of living. It is a huge blow on all of us who were expecting some relief financially.”
Concerns on Medical Coverage
The impending loss of medical cover from December has added to the anxiety. For many teachers, medical coverage is a critical part of their employment benefits. Mary Njeri, a secondary school teacher in Nakuru, expressed her misgivings:
“Medical cover is essential for us and our families. Losing it means we are left vulnerable to high medical expenses, which can be financially crippling.”
Impact on Intern Teachers
The hiring of 46,000 intern teachers is delayed while 20,000 new teachers were recently recruited. The intern teachers, who had been eyeing absorption into the government payroll, are now left in limbo. Peter Otieno, an intern teacher based in Kisumu, said:
“I have been waiting for a permanent position for more than a year. The delay translates into more months without a stable income; hence, I am really demoralized.”
Reaction: Calls for Government Action
The many teachers are now urging the government to reconsider the budget cuts and give priority to the education sector. The potential disruption of schools—when pupils and students are keeping for national examinations—remains what is at stake and of real concern. Esther Mwangi, a teacher and union representative, made the appeal thus:
“The government has to understand that investing in education is very key. Teachers form the backbone of our society, and their welfare has a direct bearing on the quality of education our children receive.”
Fear of Strikes and Protests
There is also the fear that the resentment of the teachers could lead to strikes or protests, paralyzing the education system. The Kenya National Union of Teachers has already hinted at possible industrial action if the issues are not tackled promptly.
Conclusion
The TSC declaration has brought into sharp focus the cries of teachers in Kenya. A mix of salary freezes, loss of medical cover, and delays in recruitment have made them feel devalued and unsupported. With teachers raising an uproar, what comes next depends on how the government reacts to cushion the blow of these budget cuts and restore the dented confidence in the sector.