Teachers In Hardship Zones Seek 40 Percent Allowance
Educators laboring in challenging areas have requested that their hardship allowance be increased to 40 percent of their basic salary.
These teachers, represented by the Kenya Teachers in Hardship and Arid Areas Welfare Association (KETHAWA), are seeking a modification to incorporate the specified allowance in the forthcoming collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) that are anticipated to be ratified before 30th June 2025.
At present, KETHAWA notes that the hardship allowance available to teachers stationed in remote and arid locales does not adequately reflect the reality of their circumstances.
The association asserts that it is the sole allowance that specifically addresses the severe conditions in which teachers operate, including isolation, inadequate infrastructure, absence of essential services, and insecurity in certain areas.
Educators argue that the existing policy does not reevaluate the allowance; thus, they will continue to be treated unfairly based on their assigned posts.
They point out that their peers in more favorable settings experience improved conditions without the added challenges that accompany teaching in isolated areas.
KETHAWA is appealing to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) along with the pertinent government entities to seriously consider their request and ensure that the new CBAs reflect the hardships faced by educators in difficult regions.
The advocacy group maintains that raising the hardship allowance will not only foster equity but also inspire teachers to stay in these challenging locations for enhanced service delivery and educational outcomes in marginalized areas.
The existing CBAs are set to expire on 30th June 2025, with current negotiations for new terms in progress. Nevertheless, the educators remain optimistic that their concerns will be addressed before the cutoff date.