JSS teachers demand autonomy, call for delinking from primary schools

Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers are demanding that their institutions be delinked from the administration of primary schools, arguing that their challenges cannot be properly addressed under the current structure.

During a press conference in Mombasa, officials of the Junior School Teachers’ Association said more than 72,000 teachers employed in junior schools face uncertainty as they lack a clear professional identity, structured opportunities for career progression, and adequate support to implement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The association's interim chairperson, James Odhiambo, observed that entrusting junior schools to primary school heads was a major setback.

“Primary school principals do not fully appreciate the distinct needs of junior schools. This gap has left teachers and learners without the resources and facilities required. Autonomy is the only solution because it will allow us to establish proper laboratories and provide psychological support for our adolescent learners,” he said.

Treasurer Juma Jigi echoed the call, adding that independence would also improve extracurricular development.

“Our learners are at a stage where sports and talent development are key. If junior schools had their own boards of management, direct funding, and even a dedicated sports association, they would have equal representation in national competitions,” he stated.

The teachers further raised concerns over promotion policies, which they say have left many of them sidelined.

They highlighted the plight of teachers who served as interns for one or two years before being absorbed into permanent and pensionable terms, but are still subjected to outdated rules requiring them to serve additional years before moving up job groups.

“We are appealing to the Ministry of Education and the Teachers Service Commission to reconsider this law. A teacher who has already taught for two years as an intern should not be forced to start counting afresh once confirmed. That is unfair and demoralising,” said Jigi.

They added that promotions announced recently appeared to favour primary and senior school teachers while excluding those in junior schools. “We are simply asking to be given equal opportunities. If a teacher in job group C3 can rise through the system, then junior school teachers should enjoy the same,” Jigi insisted.

The officials warned that if the government fails to respond, they are prepared to seek legal redress to safeguard their rights.

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