KNUT Marsabit Demands Better Pay and Working Conditions for Rural Teachers

By Samuel Kosgei

MARSABIT — The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Marsabit Branch has called for better remuneration, improved working conditions and increased investment in schools in remote and hardship areas.

The union made the call on Monday as Kenya joined the world in marking World Teachers’ Day 2026 under the theme, “Standing with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, advancing its status and shaping our futures.”

KNUT Marsabit Branch Executive Secretary Rosemary Talaso Haro said teachers in the county continue to work under difficult conditions, including walking long distances to reach remote schools, teaching in inadequate facilities and overcoming cultural and language barriers.

“In Marsabit County, our teachers embody resilience. They trek long distances to reach remote schools, teach under trees when classrooms are scarce, and adapt to diverse cultures and languages to ensure no child is left behind,” Ms Haro said.

She said despite progress in improving literacy among nomadic communities and introducing innovative approaches to education, teachers in the county still face challenges that require urgent intervention.

The union called for equitable remuneration and safer working environments, arguing that teachers working in hardship areas should be adequately recognised and supported.

It also raised concerns over overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure and delayed promotions, saying the challenges continue to affect the quality of education and teachers’ morale.

KNUT further called for equitable distribution of educational resources, increased professional development opportunities and targeted policies to address the unique challenges facing teachers in hardship areas.

Haro urged the national and county governments and other stakeholders to recognise teachers as nation-builders, mentors and counsellors whose contribution extends beyond classroom instruction.

“When teachers are valued, motivated and supported, learners thrive, communities prosper, and the nation advances,” she said.

The KNUT Marsabit Branch reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for teachers’ welfare and called for greater unity and government action to protect the teaching profession and enable educators to serve with dignity.