In a significant development, Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers in Trans Nzoia County celebrated their long-awaited confirmation of permanent and pensionable status.
An event held on Thursday at Showground Primary School in Kiminini sub-county marked the resolution of a prolonged struggle between the teachers and the county government.
Governor George Natembeya handed over confirmation letters to the ECDE teachers, leading to jubilant celebrations and ululations.
Emphasizing the importance of the ECDE department, which is devolved, Governor Natembeya assured continued attention and support from his administration. He stressed the need for well-remunerated and motivated teachers, advocating for improved terms of service and a service scheme.
The Governor announced further the construction of 23 ECDE classrooms across the county’s 25 wards, directing that the administration of ECDE be returned to the department rather than primary school headteachers.
He also revealed plans to employ an additional 2,000 ECDE teachers, while introducing capitation for ECDE learners to improve retention rates.
During the ceremony, Governor Natembeya inaugurated a milk-feeding program aimed at enhancing the nutritional value and brain development of the children.
He emphasized the importance of improved infrastructure, including the construction of modern toilets suitable for early learners.
“Teachers shouldn’t be seen again sharing toilets with ECDE learners,” the county boss said while calling for better facilities.
ECDE teachers’ training college
Meanwhile, he urged the teachers to maintain financial discipline, highlighting its impact on career progression.
He also announced plans to collaborate with the national government in hiring health workers and revealed intentions to establish an ECDE teachers’ training college within the county.
Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi commended the Governor for uplifting the livelihoods of teachers, urging them to pursue personal development.
He emphasized the need for support towards the Governor’s initiatives to benefit from the projects, emphasizing the success of devolution and the commitment of the national government to collaborate with county governments for rapid development.
On her part, Deputy Governor Philomenah Kapkori expressed gratitude to the Governor’s administration for fulfilling the campaign pledge to employ ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms.
A total of 735 ECDE teachers received confirmation letters, marking the culmination of nearly a decade-long engagement.
New salary for Trans Nzoia ECDE teachers
Fifteen teachers, with three months remaining until retirement, will continue on contract terms.
Under the new terms, all certificate holders will receive a gross monthly salary of Ksh24,500, while diploma holders will earn Ksh28,940, and degree holders will receive Ksh35,940 per month.
Further, Governor Natembeya reaffirmed his commitment to improving the working environment for ECDE teachers through the construction of additional infrastructure in learning institutions.
