In a significant move to avert a potential national strike, Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, Dr. Alfred Mutua, met with the National Steering Council of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) today.
The meeting, held in the cabinet secretary’s office, comes in the wake of escalating tensions within the teaching fraternity, with reports indicating that a nationwide strike could be on the horizon if grievances are not addressed.
During the meeting, Dr. Mutua reiterated his commitment to ensuring industrial peace by addressing issues before they escalate. “We must endeavour to arrest issues before they fester and lead to strikes,” he emphasized, acknowledging the importance of preemptive action in maintaining harmony within the workforce.
The KNUT delegation, led by Secretary General Collins Oyuu and National Chairman Patrick Munuhe, presented a list of concerns that have been causing unrest among teachers. At the forefront of their grievances is the delay in implementing the second phase of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed in 2021.
The first phase of the CBA was non-monetary, but the second phase, which was supposed to take effect on 1st July this year, promised a salary increment of between 7% and 9%. The delay in its implementation has led to growing dissatisfaction among educators.
Additionally, the union raised issues concerning the operation of the teachers’ medical scheme, the non-remittance of SACCO and loan deductions, and delays in the payment of retirement benefits for teachers exiting the service.
KNUT is also advocating for the permanent employment of intern teachers and the hiring of an additional 20,000 teachers to address the current staffing shortfall.
In response, Dr. Mutua assured the union leaders of his intention to find a swift resolution to their concerns. He pledged to engage with his colleagues in the Cabinet and other relevant government arms to address the issues raised.
“It is my desire to ensure comfort for both employees and employers, not only for industrial peace but also for enhanced productivity,” he said, signaling his commitment to maintaining a collaborative relationship with the teaching fraternity.
Dr. Mutua further promised to reconvene with the KNUT representatives in a week’s time to assess progress and continue the dialogue. He reassured the union that they have a friend in him and that his office will always be open for discussions aimed at resolving conflicts before they escalate.
The KNUT Secretary General, Collins Oyuu, expressed gratitude to the CS for taking the initiative to address the union’s concerns proactively. He acknowledged that the meeting marked a positive step towards resolving the issues that have been brewing within the teaching sector.
Dr. Mutua was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Labour, Shadrack Mwadime, and other senior officials from the Ministry. The meeting reflects the government’s broader efforts to ensure that industrial relations remain cordial and that the interests of workers are safeguarded.
