Nationwide Protests Erupt as JSS Intern Teachers Demand Fair Treatment.
On April 29th, 2024, Kenya witnessed a surge of protests as Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers across the country joined forces to address longstanding grievances regarding their employment status and compensation. Organized by regional branches of the Kenyan Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), these demonstrations marked a culmination of frustrations following a recent court ruling in their favor.
At the heart of the protests lie the demands for permanent employment with pension benefits and fair compensation, as mandated by a recent Employment and Labour Relations Court decision. JSS intern teachers currently hold temporary positions, lacking the security and financial stability associated with permanent roles. The court ruling, however, recognized their qualifications and contributions, necessitating an adjustment in their employment terms. The protests serve as a powerful message to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), urging them to comply with the court’s directive and eliminate discriminatory practices that disadvantage JSS intern teachers.
The demonstrations transcended county borders, with reports of peaceful protests erupting in Narok, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, and Kilifi. KUPPET branches in these regions played a pivotal role in mobilizing JSS intern teachers, showcasing a united front in their fight for fair treatment. Importantly, organizers emphasized their adherence to Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, guaranteeing the right to peaceful assembly and association. This legal grounding highlights the legitimacy of their actions and their commitment to achieving their goals through peaceful means.
The nationwide protests serve as a potent symbol of collective action within the Kenyan education sector. JSS intern teachers are not only advocating for their own rights but also raising awareness of systemic issues that perpetuate unequal treatment within the teaching profession. The demonstrations stand as a testament to the power of solidarity and the potential for change when educators unite in pursuit of justice and fairness. The impact of these protests will likely extend beyond the immediate demands, potentially influencing future policies and practices that govern the treatment of educators in Kenya. As JSS intern teachers await a response from the TSC and relevant authorities, the reverberations of these demonstrations will undoubtedly shape the discourse on teacher rights and working conditions in the country.
Nationwide Protests Erupt as JSS Intern Teachers Demand Fair Treatment
