Why JSS Interns Suspended their Strike: Thousands of Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers have been on strike since April 17, 2024. However, they have now decided to suspend their industrial action until July 5, 2024. This move will allow the National Assembly to proceed with the budget approval process.
These 46,000 teachers, initially hired as interns, are demanding permanent and pensionable employment from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
The Interns want TSC to issue a circular
National spokesman Mr. Omari has called on the TSC to issue a circular confirming their status as permanent employees immediately after the budget is passed.
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The JSS teachers urged their colleagues to return to classes by June 10, 2024. They emphasized that the strike is only temporarily halted and that they expect a decisive response by July 5, 2024.
Mr. Omari explained that this decision came after many meetings with the National Assembly’s select committees on labour and education.
JSS teachers presented their demands to parliamentary committees
The teachers presented their primary demand: the confirmation of all 46,000 interns. The committees supported their demands and presented them to the budget committee.
This issue has now been tabled them in parliament for approval. The committees requested the teachers to suspend their strike to facilitate the budget process.
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The committees also asked the intern teachers to give the TSC time to receive the funds and prepare for their immediate recruitment.
Mr. Omari highlighted that, out of respect for the committees’ efforts and concern for the children of poor Kenyan parents, they decided to suspend their demonstrations.
Engaging teachers on internship terms is now illegal
He also reminded parliamentarians of a court ruling declaring internships illegal. Omari stated that, after consulting their legal team, the teachers would return to work not as interns but as volunteers. The move demonstrates their commitment to education, despite ongoing issues.
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Mr. Omari emphasized that if, by July 5, 2024, the TSC has not confirmed their permanent status, the teachers would resume their strike.
He underscored the nobility of the teaching profession and the sacrifices teachers make for the nation’s future. However, he insisted that the TSC and the government must not exploit their dedication. He condemned the long-term use of qualified teachers as interns and equated it to slavery.
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It is obvious that strikes harm both students and teachers. Last month, the National Assembly Committee on Education urged the TSC to convert 26,000 interns to permanent employment starting July 2024.
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