Teachers in Isiolo have joined colleagues across the country in demanding autonomy for Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) and permanent employment terms for all JSS intern teachers under the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

The educators raised concerns over conflicts of interest caused by the lack of clear guidelines on the management of JSS staff and resources, which are currently overseen by primary school head teachers.

According to teacher Sophia Mukami, placing JSS under primary school management contradicts career progression guidelines for secondary-level educators. 

She added that the current arrangement negatively affects JSS learners, arguing that they should not share the same environment with primary pupils as it hinders their growth and self-awareness.

Officials from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) also faulted the government for mishandling the JSS transition.

Moses Kimwere, KUPPET Isiolo branch secretary-general, noted that both sports and co-curricular activities have suffered due to the ongoing standoff between teachers and the government over JSS management. 

He added that teacher shortages have forced some educators to handle subjects they are not trained for, increasing their workload.

Gilbert Wafula, KUPPET Isiolo branch chairman, emphasized that JSS teachers have worked as interns for too long and urged TSC to confirm them on permanent and pensionable terms.

Echoing the same, Nelson Adhimbo stressed that granting JSS autonomy would allow the institutions to manage resources independently, ensuring better quality education for learners.