The Kenya Union of Post‑Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has withdrawn its strike notice after the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) invited it to begin salary negotiations. The move comes ahead of talks scheduled for Wednesday, July 2.
KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori announced the reversal in Nairobi on June 30. He said, “We have withdrawn the strike notice because the employer has officially invited us for salary review talks this week on Wednesday, July 2.” The previous strike notice had escalated tensions between the union and the TSC over salary and working conditions.
Misori clarified that KUPPET first raised its demands on October 30, 2024. They seek salary increments of between 30 percent and 70 percent, reduction of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) cycle from four to two years, and a full clearance of a promotions backlog affecting approximately 130,000 teachers.
He emphasized that economic strains hit teachers hard, especially in urban centres like Nairobi. “A teacher in Kenya High School in Nairobi cannot afford to live in the houses in the surroundings of the school because it is beyond their imagination, forcing them to live far, where they spend almost their salary on transport,” Misori said. He urged TSC to address housing and cost-of-living issues promptly.
Misori also called for a 100 percent increase on selected allowances, and requested automatic career progression up to deputy principal level, noting delays that have kept principals in acting positions for years.
The withdrawal of the strike notice reflects KUPPET’s willingness to negotiate. Misori expressed optimism, saying he expects “positive financial outcomes” for teachers once talks begin. He urged the TSC to move swiftly given the CBA’s expiry on June 30.
TSC has yet to publicly respond to these demands. However, the agreement to hold talks indicates a shift from confrontation to negotiation. Observers note that resolution through dialogue may set a precedent for smoother labor relations in the public sector.
Education stakeholders, including principals, teachers, parents, and pupils,breathed a sigh of relief. Disruption of learning had sparked growing concern, especially with national exams and school programs underway.
Misori’s requests suggest significant structural changes to teacher remuneration and career progression, which would require TSC’s budgetary planning and Cabinet approval.
