The government has reiterated its commitment to working closely with teachers and their unions to advance education reforms and safeguard the welfare of educators, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has said.
Speaking during the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) National Delegates Conference held at the Kasarani Gymnasium, Bitok said the Ministry of Education values the partnership it enjoys with teachers’ unions, describing it as critical to the successful implementation of ongoing and future reforms in the sector.
“We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening collaboration with teachers and their unions to ensure that every learner in Kenya progresses through a seamless, equitable and learner-centred education pathway,” Bitok said.
He told the gathering that the government appreciates the role played by KNUT’s leadership in fostering dialogue and consultation, noting that such engagement has helped address challenges facing the education sector.
“I thank the KNUT Chairman, Secretary General and the entire leadership for the constructive and consultative partnership they continue to extend to the Government through the Ministry of Education,” he said.
The Principal Secretary acknowledged teachers as central to the delivery of education reforms, particularly under the new Competency Based Education (CBE) framework.
He singled out the successful administration of the pioneer Kenya Junior School Education Assessment as a milestone that underscored the commitment and professionalism of teachers across the country.
“I acknowledged the indispensable role teachers play in delivering education reforms, particularly the implementation of Competency Based Education and the successful administration of the pioneer Kenya Junior School Education Assessment,” Bitok said.
He also conveyed assurances on behalf of President William Ruto regarding the status and welfare of teachers.
According to Bitok, the Head of State holds teachers in high regard and remains committed to improving their working conditions.
“Reaffirmed H.E. the President’s deep respect for teachers and his firm commitment to improving their welfare, noting the steady progress being made in implementing directives issued during the recent engagement with teachers at State House,” he said.
Looking ahead, Bitok called for continued collaboration as the country prepares for a major transition in 2026, when senior schools will, for the first time, host learners from both the 8-4-4 system and the Competency Based Education pathway.
“As we look ahead to 2026, I called for sustained collaboration as the country prepares for the historic transition in which senior schools will host both 8-4-4 and CBE cohorts,” he said.
On concerns surrounding Junior Secondary School, the Principal Secretary assured KNUT that the ministry is actively addressing outstanding issues.
“Assured KNUT that the Ministry is fully seized of matters affecting Junior Secondary School, including domiciling and teacher contracts, and that ongoing consultations are guided by the best interests of learners, teachers and the education system as a whole,” Bitok said.
