The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has urged the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) to immediately reinstate teachers barred from marking this year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.

Kisii Executive Secretary Joseph Abincha criticized the suspension during a funeral service at Mosora Secondary School, describing it as unjust and infamous. He noted that the affected teachers had not been implicated in any examination irregularities and called on Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba to intervene.

Abincha argued that the suspended teachers followed KNEC’s directives, leaving their schools under the supervision of principals and deputies. He maintained that any malpractice that occurred was beyond their control.

“The Education CS must ensure individuals directly involved in examination malpractices are held accountable while protecting innocent groups such as schools and examiners,” Abincha said, stressing that collective punishment undermines trust in the education system and unfairly penalizes blameless parties.

Criticism of Teacher Recruitment Process

Abincha also took aim at the teacher recruitment process, describing it as discriminatory and flawed. He cited cases where married female teachers were denied postings in their matrimonial homes and instead assigned to their places of birth.

“This practice is discriminatory and mirrors the reintroduction of delocalization policies,” he stated, warning that such actions could strain marriages and create logistical challenges for affected teachers.

Abincha proposed involving local chiefs in vetting applicants, noting that many have supporting documents such as marriage certificates, affidavits, and identification letters.

Tribute to Leadership and Call for Unity

During the event, Abincha thanked former Kisii Governor James Ongwae for prioritizing teachers’ inclusion in consultative forums during his tenure. Ongwae, who was in attendance, emphasized the importance of community unity in driving development.

The funeral service brought together several prominent leaders, including former Water Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Woman Representative Donya Aburi, and Members of Parliament Alpha Miruka (Bomachoge Chache) and Japhet Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North). Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi was also present, highlighting the event’s significance.

Ongoing Challenges in the Education Sector

KUPPET’s renewed push underscores persistent challenges in Kenya’s education sector, from examination integrity to teacher welfare and recruitment policies. The union’s demands for fair treatment aim to foster a more equitable and effective education system.