Teachers’ Unions Call for Ruto-Raila Dialogue, Highlight Disruption to Learning

Teachers’ Unions Call for Ruto-Raila Dialogue, Highlight Disruption to Learning

Teachers’ unions, Knut and Kuppet, have appealed for a dialogue between President William Ruto and Opposition leader Raila Odinga to resolve the ongoing anti-government demonstrations that have been causing severe disruptions to the education sector. During separate events in Eldoret, union officials emphasized that the Azimio-led protests were negatively impacting learning in numerous schools and further deteriorating the already struggling economy.

Kuppet’s vice chairman, Julius Korir, and deputy secretary general, Moses Nthurima, criticized the uncompromising stances taken by political leaders, stating that such positions would only harm rather than help the country. They stressed the importance of dialogue to foster unity among Kenyans.

Korir stated that progress would be hindered if government leaders and Azimio representatives did not engage in meaningful dialogue to put an end to the destructive demonstrations. He emphasized the need for leaders to come together after the concluded elections and focus on planning for the country’s growth instead of engaging in endless battles.

Referring to an incident where tear gas was thrown into a school in Nairobi, resulting in harm to students, Korir expressed concern over the safety of children being exposed to such dangers due to political power struggles. He urged political leaders to promptly convene a forum to address grievances and find resolutions, thereby preventing further bloodshed and destruction.

At the same time, officials from KNUT (Kenya National Union of Teachers), led by Sammy Borr, voiced their disapproval of the Azimio demonstrations during the KNUT Chepkoilel branch Annual General Meeting. Borr emphasized that President Ruto was duly elected and urged the opposition to grant him the opportunity to implement his development agenda. He called upon leaders to focus on the country’s development and avoid unnecessary tensions, urging Azimio leaders to pursue better channels for addressing grievances rather than resorting to violent demonstrations.

Both unions stressed the urgency of the government and the Teachers Service Commission addressing teachers’ concerns, including the improvement of terms and conditions of service and the recruitment of more teachers. Nthurima specifically highlighted the need for swift salary harmonization for the TSC secretariat and teachers to ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve. He noted that teachers had already suffered losses exceeding Sh125 billion due to the lack of harmonization.