The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), Kilifi Branch, has acquired a bus in a move aimed at improving teachers’ welfare, marking the first such purchase by the union in the coastal region.
Speaking during the launch of the Sh8.5 million bus in Kilifi town, KUPPET Kilifi Branch Executive Secretary Caleb Mogere described the acquisition as a historic milestone for teachers in the county and the wider Coast region.
“This is a historic moment for teachers in Kilifi County and the Coast region. The acquisition of this bus is a major step towards addressing some of the challenges teachers face, especially during professional engagements,” said Mogere.
He called on teachers to remain united despite belonging to different unions, noting that unity was key to advancing their collective agenda.
“We urge teachers to remain united irrespective of the unions they belong to, because unity will enable us to effectively push our issues forward,” he added.
His remarks were echoed by other union officials who emphasised that a united labour front would strengthen engagement with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in addressing teachers’ grievances.
KUPPET Kilifi County Chairman Morris Chiguba said teachers had for a long time struggled with transportation challenges during official duties, a situation he said had now been resolved.
“Teachers have faced serious transport challenges while attending professional activities, but with the acquisition of this bus, that problem has now been consigned to the grave of oblivion,” said Chiguba.
KUPPET Kilifi County Treasurer Mae Kitsao attributed the achievement to the cooperation and commitment of teachers, dismissing doubts that had earlier been expressed over the feasibility of acquiring the bus.
“This success has been achieved through the unity and cooperation of teachers. Those who doubted that this milestone could be realised can now see the results,” she said.
The union leaders further disclosed that, in addition to the bus purchase, KUPPET was intensifying pressure on the government through the Teachers Service Commission to employ Junior Secondary School intern teachers on permanent and pensionable terms.
By Stephen Mrira
