The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) officials in the Rift valley region have castigated the Teachers Service Commission over taxing teachers on the refresher courses known as Teachers Professional Development module.
The officials now want the decision by TSC rescinded to allow consultation over the matter.
National Executive member representing Rift Valley Mr. Martin Sembelo said TSC should play its responsibility and pay for the teachers’ training.
Speaking to the press after meeting with County KNUT officials in Kapenguria, Sembelo who is also the West Pokot KNUT Executive Secretary, said that taxing people during these hard economic times is infringing and violates their rights.
“We endanger teachers and they have no morale to teach in class. TSC should come to a round table with KNUT and consult on any radical decision making. Teachers are your employees and you should listen to their demands,” said Sembelo.
He reiterated the need for a good working relationship between teachers and their employer.
“TSC should not close its doors. It needs to cultivate a good working and harmonious relationship that will culminate in good results and quality education in the country,” said Sembelo.
Sembelo called on the Teachers Service commission to obey, adhere and respect court orders that have already been issued concerning the plight of teachers.
He said that it was wrong for TSC to try to kill the Union that has the mandate of defending teachers rights.
Furthermore, Sembelo added that TSC should scrap off the notion of two pay rolls, saying that it is unfair and ambiguous.
West Pokot KNUT Branch Chairman Mr. Joel Partich said that the teachers are not against the training but they (TSC) should be responsible and pay for them.