In a move that brings much-needed relief to educators, Kenya has taken a significant step by announcing a 9.5 percent pay increase for its teachers, effective from July 2023( the announcement was back-dated). This landmark decision was the result of a collaborative effort between the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and various trade unions, including the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), and the Kenya Union of Support Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET).
The new pay deal, which covers a two-year period backdated to July 2023, is set to benefit approximately 400,000 teachers across the country. TSC Secretary Nancy Macharia emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating that it would amend the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the years 2021-2025. The 9.5 percent salary increase will be distributed over two financial years, bringing significant financial relief to educators who play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation.
Moreover, the pay increase isn’t the only aspect of the agreement. Teachers categorized under Cluster 4 will also experience an adjustment in their house allowance, with the full harmonization of house allowances for Cluster 3 and 4 teachers expected to be achieved by July 2024. This harmonization seeks to ensure fairness and equity in remuneration for teachers across different categories.
However, as Kenya takes commendable steps to uplift its teaching community, the situation in neighboring Uganda remains starkly different. Teachers under the Uganda National Teachers Union (UNATU) are grappling with low pay, which has led to serious concerns about their financial well-being. UNATU General Secretary Filbert Baguma recently released a statement expressing the union’s frustration with the government’s failure to address their salary concerns.
Pay Increase for Ugandan Teachers still an Illusion
In a bid to demand fair wages, UNATU ( Uganda National Teachers Union ) threatened way back in June 2023 to engage in a year-long strike throughout 2024 if the Ugandan government doesn’t take substantial measures to increase teachers’ salaries. The union has granted the government until the forthcoming budgeting cycle for the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 to allocate funds for enhancing the salaries of primary school teachers and those in the arts and humanities sector.
The contrasting narratives between Kenya and Uganda shed light on the vital importance of recognizing and adequately compensating teachers for their tireless efforts. While Kenya’s decision to implement a substantial pay increase reflects a commitment to valuing the teaching profession, Uganda’s teachers’ struggles highlight the urgent need for equitable and fair compensation.
As educators in Kenya celebrate this progressive pay adjustment, it serves as a reminder that investing in teachers’ welfare is an investment in the future of the country. Across borders, the spotlight remains on the pivotal role teachers play in shaping young minds and societies, underscoring the importance of supporting them with adequate remuneration and recognition.