Parents Revolt Over Looming JSS Strike: ‘Don’t Turn Our Children Into Victims of Power Games!
By Jeff Kizzilah/ Digital Editor
The National Parents Association (NPA) has raised alarm over the looming industrial action by Junior School (JSS) teachers, warning that the planned strike threatens to plunge the education sector into uncertainty and disrupt learning across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the association, Chairperson Silas Obuhatsa urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to urgently convene a consultative meeting with the Junior School Union leadership to address the grievances raised by teachers before the situation escalates.
“Dialogue remains the most effective and responsible pathway to resolving disputes, especially where the future of our learners is at stake,” Obuhatsa stated.
The NPA expressed particular concern over Grade 10 learners, who are still adjusting to the high school environment and have not previously experienced disruptions such as teacher strikes. The association warned that exposing them to instability at such a critical stage could negatively impact their academic progress, emotional well-being, and overall transition within the education system.
The association further noted that the government has already disbursed capitation funds to facilitate uninterrupted learning. A strike at this point, they argued, would amount to a waste of public resources and undermine the sacrifices made by parents to support their children’s education.
NPA also referenced the recent successful engagement between the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the government in resolving issues surrounding the Social Health Authority (SHA), citing it as proof that dialogue and goodwill can yield practical solutions.
“As parents, we believe a similar approach can be applied to address the concerns of Junior School teachers,” Obuhatsa added.
The association is now calling on all stakeholders to act with urgency, responsibility, and a learner-centered focus, emphasizing that the interests of children must remain paramount.
The NPA reaffirmed its readiness to support dialogue and mediation efforts aimed at ensuring continuity of learning and stability in schools.
