By Bernard Munyao
Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers working in various schools within Murang’a County have called for the full autonomy of JSS.
In a press conference held on Friday, the teachers demanded for a distinct administrative structure separate from that of primary schools where JSS are currently hosted.
The teachers led by the officials of Kenya Junior School Teachers Association, Murang’a branch argued that JSS level should not be treated merely as an extension of primary education but recognized as an independent entity with its own leadership, resources, and curriculum focus.
One of the educators, Mr. Ronald Atamba stated that autonomy of JSS would help strengthen both curricular and co-curricular activities tailored to the needs of learners.
“Junior secondary schools should be viewed as a separate entity with its own administration. All this is for the good of learners,” noted Atambi.
He further emphasized the urgent need for improved infrastructure, particularly science laboratories, to support teaching of science subjects adding that many schools don’t have equipped labs and mostly learners miss crucial opportunities for practical training.
“Most CBE subjects are practical. Without proper laboratories and equipment, students cannot fully benefit from the system,” He added.
On his part, another JSS teacher Mr. Henry Otieng’ino echoed the call for independence of JSS and highlighted the shortage of skilled teachers.
“Every subject needs a qualified teacher, but many schools are struggling with gaps. Unfortunately in some cases teachers of humanities are subjected to teach science subjects.
“There is a shortage of science teachers in many of the JSS. We need enough trained staff so learners are not disadvantaged,” He said, urging the government to address the staffing crisis.
Ms. Julien Mwangi, also speaking during the press conference, criticized the internship terms under which many JSS teachers are currently employed.
She noted that most of them had already completed teaching practice during their training and therefore deserved permanent and pensionable positions under the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
“It is unfair to treat us as interns after we have already gone through professional attachment. We are calling on education stakeholders to absorb us fully into the system,” She remarked.
Another tutor, James Munene, faulted the habit of buying exam papers to assess JSS learners.
Munene observed that most bought examination papers of low quality and don’t align with the CBE syllabus.
“JSS teachers are qualified to set exams for their learners. Some of the papers sourced elsewhere are outdated and don’t factor changes in the new curriculum.” He added.
The teachers maintained that granting JSS autonomy and strengthening resources would not only improve the quality of teaching and learning but also give dignity to the teaching profession at this crucial stage of education.
Education stakeholders in Murang’a are now waiting for an official response from the Ministry of Education and the TSC regarding the teachers’ concerns.
