The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has sharply criticized President William Ruto’s recent nomination of Julius Ogamba as the new Education Cabinet Secretary (CS), arguing that Ogamba lacks the requisite expertise for the role. The union’s stance has highlighted a broader debate about the appropriateness of the appointment and its implications for the education sector.
KNUT’s second national vice chairman, Aggrey Namisi, has voiced strong objections to Ogamba’s nomination, emphasizing that the new CS, a professional lawyer by training, is not well-suited for managing the Ministry of Education. Namisi suggested that Ogamba’s skills would be more fitting for the position of Attorney General rather than leading the Education Ministry.
“We needed someone with a background in education, ideally someone who has worked their way up through the teaching ranks and understands the nuances of the education sector,” Namisi said during KNUT’s 17th Annual General Meeting in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. He expressed concern that Ogamba would require extensive time for induction and learning to effectively handle his new responsibilities.
Namisi further raised concerns about Ogamba’s ability to oversee the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), a significant educational reform currently underway. “The transition to CBC is crucial, and we need someone who is already well-versed in the model,” Namisi stated. He urged President Ruto to appoint someone with a deep understanding of education to ensure a smooth transition and effective management of the Ministry.
KNUT officials have also pointed out that there are several qualified educationists who could lead the Ministry with minimal induction. Chepkoilel KNUT branch executive secretary Sammy Bor echoed these sentiments, arguing that Ogamba’s lack of educational background could slow down the progress of ongoing educational reforms. “The country’s education system is in a state of transition, and it’s vital that we have a professional educationist in charge,” Bor said.
In addition to their concerns about the nomination, KNUT has issued a warning regarding potential industrial action. The union has been pushing for the implementation of the final phase of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which includes enhanced salaries for teachers. Namisi warned that if the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) does not meet its obligations by the end of July, it could lead to a nationwide strike. “We expect the final batch of salary increases to be honored by the end of this month. Failure to do so will result in a serious industrial action,” Namisi cautioned.
In response to the criticism, the government has defended Ogamba’s nomination, emphasizing that his diverse professional background could bring a fresh perspective to the Ministry. The administration has reassured stakeholders that Ogamba will be supported during his transition into the role and that efforts will be made to ensure continuity in educational reforms.
