The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has officially directed its members to boycott invigilation and marking duties for the 2026 national examinations.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The union said the action will continue until the government clears Ksh1.5 billion owed to teachers for services rendered during the 2025 national exams.

KUPPET National Chairperson Omboko Milemba issued the ultimatum, saying teachers will no longer work without pay.

“Teachers have rendered their services, and it is a violation of labour rights to keep them waiting for over a year for their pay,” Milemba said.

📌 What You Need to Know

The boycott comes amid a dispute between the Ministry of Education and the National Treasury over responsibility for the unpaid dues.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok had previously assured teachers that their arrears would be cleared by the end of May after consultations with President William Ruto.

However, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi contradicted the assurance, stating that all funds allocated to the ministry have already been disbursed.

“Regarding the disbursement of funds meant for the national examination council, teachers should ask the Ministry of Education. We already disbursed what Parliament approved for the education sector,” Mbadi said.

He added, “If it is inadequate to pay the KNEC contracting professionals, then there is no additional allocation for it since we already disbursed what Parliament approved for the education sector.”

Teachers have expressed frustration that, despite receiving Ksh9.9 billion for the 2026 exams , KNEC has prioritised payments to other contracted professionals.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke