KNUT Chief Condemns Unjust Teacher Promotions; “Be Fair and Human”
Collins Oyuu, Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), has expressed grave worry about what he calls the Teachers Service Commission’s (TSC) unfair teacher promotion practices.
Some recently trained graduates are unfairly sidelining long-serving teachers, according to Oyuu.
Speaking at a union event, Oyuu questioned the rationale for promoting a teacher who graduated in 2023 over one who has been in the field since 2010. He stated that the choice contradicts fairness and logic, particularly in an industry that requires commitment and expertise.
“You must be humane and just. “Choosing a teacher who graduated from college in 2023 while excluding the one who completed teacher training in 2010 raises more issues than it resolves,” he stated.
The TSC was urged by the KNUT president to review its promotion standards. He stressed that when making promotion decisions, experience, dedication, and service to students should be valued. He argues that the current trend threatens to demoralize thousands of instructors who have been steadfast and loyal to the system.
Oyuu additionally cautioned that such biased procedures might spark discontent among teachers. Despite having given years of service in remote and underprivileged areas, many teachers feel ignored, he said.
He urged the TSC to work with stakeholders to create a fairer and more transparent system. He also reminded the administration that teachers are the foundation of the educational system and should be treated fairly and with respect.
The union has vowed to seek justice for impacted members and to follow up on the matter. KNUT will not remain idle as experienced teachers are overlooked and substituted with new graduates without sufficient explanation, according to Oyuu.
This comes at a time when numerous teachers nationwide have expressed displeasure with the promotion process, alleging favoritism and inconsistency on the part of the TSC.
KNUT is currently calling for a policy review that prioritizes transparency, fairness, and consideration for teachers with long tenure.
KNUT Chief Rejects Unjust Teacher Promotions, “Be Fair and Human”
