Wajir ECDE teachers call off strike, team to look into complaints

ECDE teachers in Wajir have called off their two-week strike after Governor Ahmed Muktar formed a task force to look into their grievances.

The task force comprises the county education department, the governor's office, ECDE officials and parents association representatives.

On Wednesday, the governor chaired a meeting that brought together ECD officials, Education executive Abdi Sugow, Public Service Board chairman Mohamed Jelle and other senior county officials.

ECD teachers have been complaining of failure by the county to employ them on permanent and pensionable terms, this is despite numerous pleas and meetings with county officials.

Their spokesperson, Jamal Mohamed, said they have been serving on contract, yet they were recruited eight years ago. He said they were first employed on three-year contracts, which were renewed by the county.

Jamal said counties like Garissa and Mandera have put their ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms and urged Wajir to follow suit.

“Just as construction sites require a strong foundation, the same applies to our children. The importance of early childhood education cannot be overstated," he said.

“Children need personal attention from their teachers, and if the teachers are not well-remunerated, their attention will be divided hence low input in quality.”

During the meeting, it was agreed that the ECDE teacher strikes be called off immediately.

They also agreed to withdraw active court cases and that the teacher's scheme of service be strictly followed.

Teachers' data, including their qualifications and TSC registration numbers, will be submitted to the relevant department for terms of service review.

Others include that the county department of education will provide ECDE learning materials for learners and teachers.

The education department will conduct CBC and capacity building training for teachers.

The governor said ECDE teachers play an important role in the growth of the children by nurturing and moulding them for a better future and urged the department to offer the necessary support so they can continue delivering.

 “My government is committed to addressing their plight to stabilise early learning and set a strong base for the education of our children,” Muktar said.

Edited by A.N