Speaking in Lodwar on Saturday during the Turkana county branch KUPPET elections, union vice chairman Julius Korir said although the union was aware of the plight of students, the teachers cannot continue teaching under the current conditions.
“Teachers are ready to teach but we want the place to be safe for them to discharge their duties. We will not allow teachers to go back to Kapedo until the security situation improves,” said Korir.
At the same time, the unionist called on the government to allow teachers to proceed on ‘compassionate leave’ until the security situation improves.
Korir called for teachers in conflict prone areas to be trained and armed to combat militants.
During the elections Simon Nariamao was elected new chair while Peter Loyapan was elected unopposed to the position of branch Executive Secretary.
Nariamao promised to work to reinvigorate KUPPET operations in the county. “I thank you for the support and confidence you have bestowed on me, I promise to work for the betterment of all members’ welfare,” said Nariamao.
On his part, Loyapan said all teachers would not hesitate to withdraw their services from schools due to insecurity. “Teachers from the county and those who hail from other parts should be accorded equal treatment,” he said.
Meanwhile, Turkana county board chairman for persons with disability Lucas Ekadeli has said the organization has embarked on a campaign to enroll pupils with disability in schools.
Speaking in Lodwar on Saturday, Ekadeli warned that many children with disability are out of school especially grade one. “We have a challenge getting pupils with disability in grade one enrolling in schools, we may lose these pupils because few are reporting as compared to other grades,” said Ekadeli who is also a teacher for visually impaired children.
Kanamkemer assistant chief Beatrice Apetet who also attended the meeting urged parents to ensure that children of people living with disability go to school. “Parents of children living with disability should ensure they go to school,” she said.
by Peter Gitonga
