Parents and school heads tell teachers to give talks a chance

Parents and school heads have asked the government and the teachers’ union leaders to give dialogue a chance in resolving the salary dispute.

They are also hoping that plans by the Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC) to return to the Supreme Court and seek a review of its ruling will not result in mistrust between the two parties.

Kenya National Association of Parents secretary-general Musau Ndunda asked the two parties to resolve the matter  amicably so that it does not affect learning.

“This is a serious issue. The government has shown willingness and I hope the unions will reciprocate and engage for at least 14 days,” said Mr Ndunda.

Similar sentiments were voiced by school heads who said the strike by teachers may affect national examinations that are set to kick off next term with practical lessons set to start mid-September.

Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association chairman John Awiti expressed confidence that the government and teachers will reach a compromise.

“We hope the government will look for funds and pay the teachers so that learning is not paralysed,” said Mr Awiti.

However, Kenya National Union of Teachers secretary-general Wilson Sossion ruled out any meeting with the government, saying that the 26 meetings that they have had were enough.

Meanwhile, Monday’s strike by teachers, if it materialises, will be the second one this year.

In January, teachers went on strike for two weeks to demand a salary increase before the government sought the intervention of the court.