KNUT criticizes political interference in teacher hiring

KNUT criticizes political interference in teacher hiring

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has spoken out against the alleged involvement of politicians in the hiring of teachers.

KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu asserts that political interference has unfairly prevented qualified teachers from securing jobs. He is worried that the commission in charge of this process has failed to fulfill its responsibilities.

“Never before in the history of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have we witnessed such occurrences. The TSC needs to function within its designated role. The way some politicians are distributing employment forms is highly concerning,” Oyuu stated.

The union is calling on the Teachers Service Commission to streamline its processes and regain full authority over recruitment as required by law.

“The issue of hiring is causing significant concern within the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT). The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is an independent body by law and is responsible for recruiting teachers for the education sector. It is troubling that the TSC has relinquished this responsibility,” Oyuu explained.

Due to this alleged interference, the KNUT leader claims that the hiring process has become biased, leaving many candidates feeling discouraged.

“It is essential to be fair and compassionate. Choosing a teacher who graduated in 2023 while overlooking one who completed their training in 2010 raises serious questions,” he noted.

Oyuu emphasized that many experienced teachers remain without formal employment and should not be ignored.

“Show compassion. There are teachers over 50 years old who are still unemployed. They are out there. What do you expect them to do? They need to be hired,” pleaded the KNUT Secretary General.