Trans Nzoia County Governor Confirms Permanent Status for ECDE Teachers, Promises Further Development
In a significant development, Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers in Trans Nzoia County celebrated their long-awaited confirmation.
The 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. The Governor firmly stated, “Teachers shouldn’t be seen again sharing toilets with ECDE learners,” calling for better facilities.
Governor Natembeya 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.
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. 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 Sh24,500, while diploma holders will earn Sh28,940, and degree holders will receive Sh35,940 per month.
Governor Natembeya reaffirmed his commitment to improving the working environment for ECDE teachers through the construction of additional infrastructure in learning institutions.
County Director of Education Pamela Akello applauded the Governor for confirming the teachers, acknowledging their dedication to developing young learners into future leaders.
She commended the Governor’s pragmatic leadership and expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the education sector under his guidance.
CEC for Education Kichwen Ruto emphasized the transformative nature of the ECDE stage and challenged teachers to work with zeal. She urged them to be accountable and committed in addressing the learners’ needs.
The event was attended by County Secretary Truphosa Amere, County Public Service Board Members, County Executive Committee members, led by Public Service Management CECM Samson Ojwang, and ward representatives.
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