In a landmark victory for classroom teachers across the country, the National Assembly has officially considered a public petition presented by Hon. Charles Nguna, MP, regarding the deployment and remuneration of teachers serving as headteachers.
The petition, dated 16th August 2023, sought to address the long-standing disparities in pay between teachers appointed as headteachers after passing the same interviews as their counterparts, but who were not absorbed under the terms of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Following deliberations, the National Assembly has compelled the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to review the salaries of these teachers and ensure they are placed at par with their peers who assumed headteacher roles before the CBA came into effect.
In a further boost, Parliament has recommended the appropriation of funds in the upcoming 2025/2026 financial year to facilitate the promotion and fair compensation of affected teachers. This move is aimed at addressing inequality and motivating teachers serving in leadership roles without proper recognition or pay.
The decision has been welcomed by teachers’ unions and education stakeholders, who termed it a “timely and just move” that affirms the value and dignity of the teaching profession.
Hon. Charles Nguna, while addressing the media, stated:
“This is a win for equity, fairness, and the hardworking teachers who have kept our schools running under challenging circumstances. It is now up to TSC to implement these resolutions with urgency and transparency.”
If implemented, the directive is expected to affect thousands of teachers across Kenya, many of whom have served as headteachers without the corresponding pay for years.
The education sector now waits to see how quickly the TSC will act on the directive, with keen interest from unions, civil society, and the teachers themselves.
