The County Government of Makueni has offered permanent employment to 453 Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) teachers. The formal announcement was made today during an event graced by the Governor of Makueni, Mutula Kilonzo Jr.
The teachers, who were previously working under contract terms, have now been assured of job security and better employment conditions. This conversion from contract to permanent status began in January, with the first lot of 497 teachers being offered permanent employment. Today’s event signifies the continuation of this process, underscoring the county’s commitment to its educators.
Governor Kilonzo, addressing the teachers at the event, emphasized the importance of their role in shaping the future of the country. He stated, “The conversion is not just a usual political ceremony. This is our heartfelt recognition of your work. It is also a way of me as a leader of this county of saying we’re sorry for taking this long to do this.” His words were met with applause from the gathered teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector.
The governor further highlighted the necessity of treating and remunerating teachers well, acknowledging their critical contribution to preserving the nation’s future. He reiterated that the county government is dedicated to ensuring that teachers receive the support and respect they deserve.
This initiative comes at a time when the education sector in Kenya faces numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, lack of infrastructure, and the need for more qualified teachers. By converting contract teachers to permanent status, the Makueni County Government aims to address some of these issues, providing stability and motivation for teachers to perform their duties effectively.