Teachers Threaten Nationwide Strike as TSC Snubs CBA Talks
Learning in public schools across Kenya could be paralyzed starting Monday, July 7, as teachers threaten to down tools over delayed negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), through its Secretary General Collins Oyuu, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC) to resume stalled talks or face a nationwide strike.
Addressing the press on Tuesday afternoon, Oyuu accused TSC of deliberately avoiding negotiations even after the current CBA expired on June 30. His remarks followed a consultative meeting between KNUT and TSC officials at the Commission’s headquarters in Nairobi, which collapsed after the Commission allegedly rejected the union’s proposals.
“We are looking forward to the demands we gave. Teachers of Kenya are not prepared to receive a non-monetary CBA as it has been in the recent past,” said Oyuu.
Among KNUT’s key demands are a 60% increase in the basic salary and a 30% rise in all allowances. The union also wants the new 2025–2029 CBA to include clear guidelines on promotions, especially for classroom teachers who do not hold administrative roles.
The failed meeting comes just a week after TSC formally invited KNUT for the long-overdue negotiations. A letter dated June 24 had summoned union representatives to a consultative meeting set for July 1.
This isn’t the first time teachers have raised concerns over the delays. On June 21, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) issued a similar ultimatum to TSC, demanding immediate talks.
KUPPET Chairperson Omboko Milemba urged the Labour Cabinet Secretary to intervene and compel the Commission to act.
“TSC should invite us for talks. The other person who should also be involved is the Labour Cabinet Secretary, who should ensure that TSC convenes the talks immediately,” said Milemba.
His call was echoed by KUPPET Secretary General Akello Misori, who emphasized that the new CBA is critical for boosting teachers’ morale and improving their welfare.
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Teachers Threaten Nationwide Strike as TSC Snubs CBA Talks
