The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Homa Bay County has cautioned political leaders against interfering in the management of schools, citing growing concerns over increased political involvement in learning institutions.
Speaking during a press briefing in Homa Bay town, the county KUPPET Chairperson, Peter Otieno said the union has noted an alarming trend of politicians attempting to influence the administration of schools, describing the trend as unacceptable.
Otieno cautioned against continued political interference which he said threatens the integrity of the education sector and disrupts the effective management of schools.
He emphasized that some elected leaders have overstepped their mandate by attempting to influence decisions in some schools across the county, a move he said undermines the authority of education stakeholders.
Otieno added that such interference not only disrupts the smooth running of institutions but also strains relationships between teachers and the communities they serve.
According to the union, the management of schools should remain the responsibility of teachers, boards of management and other education stakeholders, free from political influence.
He further appealed to the political class to promote unity and refrain from divisive rhetoric, saying the country needs a peaceful environment for learners to thrive.
“I want to appeal to the political class, especially to embrace unity. Politicians should tone down on divisive rhetoric to create a good environment for our children and for schools to prosper in education,” said Otieno.
KUPPET reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the independence of learning institutions and urged all leaders to respect the role of teachers and school management in running educational affairs.
By Sitna Omar
