The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers has hit out at Education CS George Magoha, accusing him of laxity in preparing schools for reopening.
Kuppet secretary general Akello Misori said the extension of schools closure by itself will not guarantee improvement of the institutions to match requirements to curb the spread of Covid-19.
"The question goes to the doorstep of the Education CS, that he must get his act together,” Misori said when asked whether schools are ready for learning.
The unionist said schools will not be any better, even if they were to buy more time to January 2021.
“Will they have the improvement of classrooms? Have they even asked Parliament to review CDF funds to at least three per cent and help in improving classrooms?” Misori said.
He spoke on Tuesday at the union’s headquarters in Nairobi.
He, however, lauded President Kenyatta decision to put on hold the push to reopen schools in favour of preparation to ensure safety in the institutions before reopening.
Ironically, the union takes on CS Magoha a week after joining various education stakeholders to champion a popular proposal that sought schools be reopened in mid-October.
"We realise that you cannot negotiate with the virus and thus we call on proper measures be put in place before reopening," Misori said.
The proposal was also supported by parents associations, school heads, private schools, and rival union Knut.
Top on their list of concerns is provision of cash to help institutions prepare for the post-virus period.
“First, we want the ministry to liaise with the Treasury and ensure schools receive funds to enable the institutions start operations, as parents search for fees,” Misori said.
The preparations, he said, should but not be limited to cover areas that will ensure learners and staff's safety.
This include water facilities to maintain hygiene, additional classrooms, desks and teachers to ensure proper spacing.
“The President was very categorical when he said that it is not when to open but how to open. As a union, we are saying that how to open among other things includes provision of masks, the presence of sufficient space and sanitation,” he said.
The union, however, said teachers should continue reporting back to work in preparation for the eventual reopening.
"Teachers belong to the school just as much as students.. Their presence in schools should not be seen like an abnormality. They will continue preparing for the eventual reopening. ” Misori said.
Edited by EKibii
