EDITORIAL: Don't play politics with teachers

The biggest test of Kenya’s commitment to education is whether schools are adequately funded and staffed. President William Ruto promised to fix all that in his meeting with teachers at State House on Saturday.

Today, capitation delays have crippled school operations, leaving head teachers unable to meet even the most basic needs. Worse, allocations still fall below the recommended levels, forcing learners and teachers to struggle in under-resourced classrooms.

If the Competency-Based Education curriculum is to succeed, the government must not only disburse funds on time but also bridge the gaps fully. Alongside this, more teachers must be hired to ease the crippling workloads carried by those already in the system.

Equally urgent is the review of Career Progression Guidelines. Teachers cannot thrive under a system that fuels stagnation and perceptions of nepotism.

Many remain stuck in the same job groups for years despite their experience and service. An immediate overhaul is necessary to restore transparency and morale, and to ensure the profession rewards merit, not connections.

Improving welfare must also go hand in hand with policy reform. Teachers deserve a medical scheme that reflects modern healthcare costs, not outdated rates. Their contribution to the housing levy should guarantee them a fair share of affordable housing units. These issues cannot and must not be hidden under political promises.