“Be Fair and Human” KNUT Boss Criticizes Unjust Teacher Promotions
The Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Collins Oyuu, has expressed significant concerns regarding what he describes as biased teacher promotions by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
According to Oyuu, numerous long-serving teachers are being unjustly overlooked in favor of newly qualified graduates.
Speaking at a union event, Oyuu questioned the rationale behind promoting a teacher who graduated in 2023 over one who has been in the profession since 2010. He contended that such a decision contradicts both logic and fairness, particularly in a field that requires experience and dedication.
“You must be fair and human. The decision to promote a teacher who completed college in 2023 while excluding the one who graduated in 2010 poses more questions than it resolves,” he remarked.
The KNUT leader urged the TSC to reassess its criteria for promotions. He stressed that experience, commitment, and service to learners should be considered significant factors in promotion decisions. He asserted that the prevailing trend jeopardizes the morale of thousands of teachers who have displayed patience and loyalty to the system.
Oyuu cautioned that such biased procedures could incite unrest among the teaching community. He observed that many educators feel disregarded, despite having devoted years of service in remote and underserved regions.
He called upon the TSC to collaborate with stakeholders to create a more transparent and just system. He also reminded the government that teachers are fundamental to the education sector and must be treated with dignity and fairness.
The union has vowed to monitor the situation and advocate for justice for the affected members. Oyuu stated that KNUT will not remain passive while experienced teachers are neglected and substituted by new graduates without sufficient justification.
This statement comes at a time when numerous educators nationwide have expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of promotions, alleging favoritism and inconsistency on the part of the TSC.
KNUT is now demanding a review of policies that emphasizes fairness, transparency, and respect for long-serving teachers.