Learning in Junior Secondary Schools is facing hurdles after teachers across Isiolo County downed their tools in solidarity with their counterparts across the country as they seek to push the government to increase their pay.

On Monday May 13, 2024, JSS teachers demonstrated across Isiolo town and camped outside the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) directors’ office, accusing the government of failure to honor court orders.

At the same time, Kimwere Moses, KUPPET Secretary General in Isiolo County said that TSC should obey the court order by the employment and labor relations court.

Kimwere said that they have issued a two-day notice to TSC after which they will file a case of contempt of court against the commission.

He complained that the teachers are also facing house levy deductions despite them not having a medical cover.

According to Kimwere, the basic salary for JSS teachers should be over Ksh70,000, since most of them are degree holders.

On the other hand, Murithi Earnest said that the internship terms are now overdue, having entered the second year despite the government’s false promise of offering them permanent and pensionable terms.

Murithi also cited reports that have been in the media about members of parliament and political leaders dishing out employment letters for JSS teachers at political gatherings.

Additionally, Charity Kianira said that the working conditions of JSS teachers in counties with hardship working environments like Isiolo were even worse.

She said that the teachers would not be going back to school if they are not confirmed on permanent and pensionable terms.

Story written by George Kobia