Kenya National Union of Teachers Secretary General Collins Oyuu has outlined the union’s progress over the past five years, citing increased teacher employment, curriculum reforms, and strengthened labour relations, while emphasising the need for continued attention on recruitment and promotions.
Speaking in Kisumu, Oyuu said the union had stabilised after a period of uncertainty to become stronger and more influential in the education sector.
“It is exactly five years since we gave this team the mandate to steer this union from a point of collapse to where it is now a strong union,” he said.
He credited the turnaround to collaborative efforts within the union’s leadership structures, including the National Executive Council and branch officials across the country.
“The success we are seeing is not by accident. It is teamwork from the national office to the branches,” Oyuu noted.
While highlighting achievements, the KNUT Secretary General also discussed ongoing challenges affecting teachers, particularly employment and career progression.
He said the government’s recruitment of 5,000 teachers was a positive step, but encouraged more comprehensive hiring to address school staffing needs.
“We have seen efforts to employ teachers, but more needs to be done. We will continue to push for the employment of more teachers to meet the demand in our schools,” he said.
Oyuu also emphasised the importance of timely and transparent promotions, urging the Teachers Service Commission to maintain a structured approach.
“We want promotions to be done in a fair and structured manner so that teachers feel valued and motivated,” he said.
Regarding education reforms, Oyuu highlighted the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) as a key milestone but noted the increased workload for teachers.
He said the union is advocating for policy adjustments, including a review of the current education cycle, to ease pressure on both learners and teachers.
“We must continue engaging the government to ensure that reforms in the education sector work for both teachers and learners,” he said.
Oyuu also encouraged members to focus on unity and support for the union’s leadership, noting that KNUT’s strength is rooted in its membership.
“This is the voice of teachers. The direction of the union comes from its members, and we must protect that unity,” he added.
Looking ahead, Oyuu said KNUT will prioritise improved working conditions, increased recruitment, and fair career growth for teachers.
“For teachers, we shall not fail you. We will continue to fight for your rights and ensure your welfare is protected,” he said.
He urged teachers nationwide to remain actively engaged in union activities, stressing that solidarity is key to advancing their interests.
“Let us stand together as one union to ensure the dignity and service of teachers in this country is not compromised,” Oyuu said.