The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has extended an invitation to teachers’ unions, Knut and Kuppet, for a crucial meeting to discuss the review of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Scheduled for August 22, 2023, this meeting holds significant importance as it addresses the growing concerns regarding eroded salaries and financial challenges faced by educators.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is set to convene with the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) and Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) on August 22, 2023, at the Kenya School of Government (KSG) in Lower Kabete, Nairobi. The objective of this meeting is to reevaluate the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and its impact on teachers.
The call for the review of the non-monetary CBA signed in 2021 stems from various challenges affecting educators, including increased statutory deductions and the introduction of new levies such as the affordable housing tax. Recognizing the importance of fair compensation in maintaining a motivated teaching workforce, both Knut and Kuppet are advocating for the inclusion of these financial concerns in the revised CBA.
Collins Oyuu, Knut’s secretary general, emphasized the significance of adequate compensation for teachers, stating that a well-paid teacher is more likely to perform effectively. In light of this, both unions are eager to reinitiate negotiations with the TSC and address the salary component that was overlooked in the 2021 agreement.
While Knut seeks a 60% salary increment and Kuppet aims for a 42% salary increment, the recent gazettement by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) announced a salary increase of 7% to 10%, retroactively effective from July 1st. Despite the initial skepticism expressed by Knut regarding the government’s approach to salary adjustments, there is a collective hope that the ongoing CBA discussions will lead to improved financial benefits for educators.
The upcoming CBA talks between TSC, Knut, and Kuppet offer a promising opportunity to address the financial concerns that have impacted teachers since the signing of the 2021-2025 agreement. With the dedication of all parties involved, there is potential for positive outcomes that will reflect the evolving needs of educators and support their vital role in shaping the nation’s future. Stay tuned for updates as these discussions unfold and potential enhancements in teachers’ salaries and allowances are realized, backdated from July 1, 2021.
DETAILS OF BASIC SALARY FOR TEACHERS SPREAD IN 2 YEARS
(According to SRC 10% increment)
B5-27,195 to 29,915
C1-33,996 to 37,393
C2-43,694 to 48,064
C3-53,943 to 59,337
C4-65,385 to 71,924
C5-77,840 to 86,624
D1-93,408 to102,749
D2-109,249 to 120,174
D3-125,573 to 138,130
D4-141,891 to 156,080
D5-157,656 to 173,422