TSC To Table Counter-Offer To KUPPET Within 3 Weeks As 2025–2029 Salary CBA Talks Intensify

admin | July 5, 2025 | TSC NEWS | No Comments

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New Twist In 2025–2029 Salary Talks: TSC Set To Present KUPPET Counter-Offer Within Weeks .

Kenyan teachers may be on the verge of a new chapter in their professional journey as the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) intensifies its engagements with the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) over the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Following a crucial consultative meeting on July 2, 2025, the Commission has committed to presenting a formal counter-offer to KUPPET within three weeks—by July 20, 2025.

This development marks a turning point in the CBA negotiations, offering hope to thousands of teachers seeking improved pay, better working conditions, and policy reforms tailored to the dynamic demands of the teaching profession under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

CBA 2025–2029: A Negotiation Built on High Stakes

The current CBA cycle, which expired on June 30, 2025, had already left teachers feeling overlooked and underpaid. The void created by its expiry has heightened pressure on TSC to act swiftly and decisively. KUPPET submitted its memorandum of demands back in October 2024, proposing robust reforms to ensure teachers are motivated, well-compensated, and supported in their roles.

At the recent meeting, TSC acknowledged receipt of the KUPPET proposal and confirmed it was engaging relevant government institutions—including the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC)—to align its counter-offer with national financial policies and fiscal realities.

TSC’s Acknowledgment: Teachers are Demoralized

In a rare and honest admission, the TSC conceded that teachers across the country are demoralized due to stagnated pay, unclear promotion pathways, and limited support systems. The Commission admitted that resolving teachers’ welfare issues is central not just to the education sector, but to the broader national stability.

This recognition has rekindled confidence in the negotiation process, even as KUPPET reminded the Commission that teachers have been operating in a vacuum since the lapse of the previous CBA.

The Key Demands from KUPPET

KUPPET’s submission emphasizes:

A substantial increase in basic salaries, especially for lower job groups

Enhanced commuter, housing, and hardship allowances adjusted for inflation

Clear timelines for promotions and appraisals

Protection of teachers’ medical and leave benefits

Inclusion of risk allowances for teachers handling hazardous or practical subjects

These proposals are crafted to reflect the economic challenges faced by teachers, as well as the increased responsibilities that have come with the CBC rollout, digital migration in schools, and rising national examination demands.

The Urgency of a TSC Counter-Offer

Teachers have waited for nearly a year since submitting their proposals through unions, making this counter-offer from TSC critical. In light of the Commission’s commitment to deliver a formal response by July 20, 2025, KUPPET has appealed to its members to exercise patience and remain calm.

If TSC adheres to this deadline, it could pave the way for a historic agreement to be signed before the end of July, enabling the Treasury to process salary adjustments through a supplementary budget before the new academic calendar begins.

Government Consultation: A Balancing Act

The TSC is currently navigating complex discussions with government agencies. While the unions demand immediate implementation of new terms, the government must also balance budget limitations, competing sectoral demands, and the long-term sustainability of public sector wage bills.

However, the positive tone from both parties—TSC and KUPPET—indicates a shared willingness to find middle ground for the benefit of teachers and learners.

Teachers Operating in a CBA Void

Since the expiry of the 2021–2025 CBA, the absence of a guiding framework has sparked anxiety within the education sector. Without a structured agreement, issues such as promotions, allowances, and transfers are subject to delay and confusion.

KUPPET has insisted that this leadership gap be resolved immediately to prevent further unrest or demoralization among educators, especially those serving in hardship zones, understaffed schools, and junior secondary institutions.

Next Steps in the Negotiation Timeline

With TSC’s promise to respond by July 20, the next three weeks will be critical. Upon receipt of the counter-offer, KUPPET is expected to call a national delegates meeting to discuss the proposal and either accept, negotiate further, or reject the terms. Should the response fall short of union expectations, the possibility of industrial action cannot be ruled out.

Nevertheless, optimism remains high that the Commission will table a comprehensive offer that meets most of the union’s demands, avoiding unnecessary conflict.

The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake for Teachers

The 2025–2029 CBA isn’t just a pay raise negotiation. It’s a battle for dignity, fairness, and motivation in one of Kenya’s most demanding professions. Teachers are looking for more than monetary gains—they want job security, predictable career growth, health protection, and recognition of their critical role in shaping Kenya’s future.

By aligning with union proposals, the TSC and government have a chance to transform the education workforce and set the tone for future reforms.

Teachers Urged to Stay Updated and Engaged

As the talks continue, teachers across the country are urged to:

Stay informed through official KUPPET and TSC communication channels

Participate in union meetings and forums

Document any grievances or feedback to help shape final agreements

Remain patient and supportive of the negotiation process

The outcome of this CBA will have long-lasting effects, and teachers must be active stakeholders in the process.