KNUT Boycotts TSC Organized Public Participation Over Punitive Acts
KNUT Boycotts TSC Organized Public Participation Over Punitive Acts. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) has vehemently opposed the proposed amendments to the Teachers Service Act (TSC) 2012, arguing that the amendments are not only unfavorable but also oppressive. Knut claims the TSC did not involve them in the formulation of the law and expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of consultation.
General secretary Knut Collins Oyuu disclosed that the union received a letter from the TSC last week outlining the proposed changes and expressing concern about the detrimental impact on teachers. The bill proposes a restructuring of the basic education system and excludes early childhood development and education (ECDE) from its scope.
One of the notable objections from Knut is the TSC’s intention to set teachers’ pay without involving unions and seeking advice from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). According to Mr. Oyuu, this violates Article 230 of the Constitution, which emphasizes the need for consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Moreover, the TSC’s proposed disciplinary powers, which are not bound by strict rules of evidence, raise concerns about potential abuse. Mr. Oyuu stressed the importance of due process in protecting the rights of educators and accused the TSC of not having a clear position on teachers’ pensions.
The bill proposes the establishment of a joint TSC-Knut committee to identify cases requiring review and address criticism of the TSC’s disciplinary procedures. However, Mr Oyuu criticized the lack of clarity in the draft of the new staffing standards and raised concerns about the reintroduction of punitive measures such as offshoring.
Despite Knut’s decision to boycott the public exercise organized by the TSC, the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) has confirmed its participation. Kuppet Secretary General Akello Misori mentioned that they would discuss the amendments during the forum, but did not give specific details about his presentation. According to Misori, the bill contains serious issues that need to be carefully considered.