State to address teachers’ welfare

Deputy President William Ruto has reassured teachers that the government will address their concerns over salaries and allowances.

The DP said structures had been put in place for meaningful engagement with the teachers’ leaders.

Mr Ruto praised teachers for suspending a work boycott and giving dialogue a chance. He said a strike would have disrupted national examinations.

“I praise teachers for letting examinations be done without interruption. We will look for solutions for the issues they have raised,” said the DP.

GOLDEN JUBILEE

He spoke at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, at celebrations to mark the golden jubilee of Kenya’s cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural organisation (Unesco).

Mr Ruto said the government had made significant investment in education — free primary schooling getting a boost of Sh4 billion this year and free day secondary school education Sh8 billion. Examination fees will be scrapped from next year, he announced.

“We want education budgets in the Constituency Development Funds to be enhanced to 25 per cent for the development of infrastructure,” he said.

Mr Ruto called for prudent use of resources, saying those charged with the responsibility of administering the funds must ensure the money is put to good use.

INCREASED FUNDS

The DP also asked MPs to be keen on the expenditure of the increased funds in the CDF. He urged the lawmakers to be on the lookout, to avoid misappropriation.

“There is about Sh40 billion invested in education for both primary and secondary. It is important that the highest level of accountability is observed so that Kenyans can get value for their money,” he said.

Mr Ruto said corruption and theft of public resources wee major impediments for development. He warned officials found engaging in the vices that they would be sacked.

He hailed Unesco for its continued promotion of peace, through education, sciences, culture, communication and information.