JSS Teachers Overworked, Understaffed & Forced into Primary Lessons
Newly hired Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers in some cases are being required to teach primary school classes against their job descriptions, as confirmed by the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET). Sam Opondo, the executive secretary of the Siaya Branch, expressed that this practice is not in line with their roles, and in certain instances, JSS teachers are being asked to instruct primary school classes and subjects they haven’t been formally trained for.
KUPPET has noted that there are strained relationships between the institution heads and JSS teachers in some schools, which may stem from non-graduate head teachers feeling inferior. Under the 8-4-4 curriculum, most newly recruited JSS teachers were intended to teach in secondary schools.
A JSS teacher who attended the Siaya County KUPPET Branch AGM voiced frustration, stating that many of them are facing difficulties and suspect that heads with P1 qualifications might be suffering from an inferiority complex.
Opondo emphasized the importance of professionalism among JSS colleagues and called on heads of institutions to exhibit professionalism, administrative order, and support for JSS teachers.
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He also pointed out that junior high schools are currently understaffed, with teachers often teaching more than ten subjects a day. Forcing them to teach additional subjects in primary school when they are already struggling with the workload in JSS is seen as a violation of their rights.
The KUPPET Siaya Branch highlighted that many JSS institutions lack essential infrastructure and resources, making practical lessons challenging or impossible. They also expressed disapproval of schools providing JSS teachers with minimal compensation for duties outside of the school premises.
A second JSS educator, speaking anonymously, described the challenges of ensuring the safety of pupils while walking long distances to and from senior high schools for practical lessons.
Vivian, an intern who started teaching a Junior Secondary School class in Bondo Subcounty in August 2023, shared her experience of teaching numerous subjects and often going without lunch due to the challenging environment.
Robert Ouko, the chairman of KUPPET in Siaya County, encouraged all members to seek help from the organization when facing difficulties, emphasizing that KUPPET is a source of empowerment and support for educators.
JSS Teachers Overworked, Understaffed & Forced into Primary Lessons
