Teachers threaten to boycott marking exams

Teachers have warned the Kenya National Examination Council (Knec) that they will boycott marking this year’s national examinations unless they are paid in advance.

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) National secretary for secondary schools Mr Edward Obwocha said teachers affiliated to the union will not participate in marking this year’s national examinations.

Speaking in Kisii, Mr Obwocha claimed Knec has been delaying pay for examinations markers.

“It is disappointing that Knec owes examiners debts dating back two years yet the teachers did their work faithfully,” said Mr Obwocha.

Mr Obwocha said Knec collects examination fees early enough and failed to understand why teachers who participated in the exercise have not been paid.

He also faulted Knec for its new policy of registering form three students and standard seven pupils for next year’s examinations.

Mr Obwocha said that Knec failed to consult stakeholders before coming up with the policy.

“Knec failed to heed to the union’s plea to withdraw the policy on grounds that it is overburdening parents,” said the official.

He refuted claims that their members decamped to join the sister union Knut after the salary increment battle with the government.