Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of teachers and enhancing education standards, particularly in Western Kenya.
Speaking during a meeting with over 70 teacher representatives from Kakamega North and Malava Constituency, Mudavadi emphasized the importance of strategic and continuous engagement between government and education stakeholders. The delegation comprised leaders from the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA).
“This is the first of many sessions we will hold. We aim to improve the welfare of teachers and the quality of learning for our children,” said Mudavadi. “Teachers are the custodians of knowledge, morality, and national progress.”
The educators, led by KNUT Kakamega North Chairperson Simon Sindani, KESSHA Vice Chair Dan Masitsa, and KNUT Treasurer Emily Mito, presented a detailed memorandum outlining key infrastructural and institutional needs. These included construction of new tuition blocks, laboratories, administration buildings, and ICT centres in several schools such as Shamberere National Polytechnic, Manyonje, Matioli, Tande, and Matsakha Secondary Schools, among others.
They also called for timely pension disbursement for retired teachers and establishment of more institutions of higher learning in Malava.
In response, Mudavadi reiterated the government’s readiness to partner with educators in transforming the learning environment across Western Kenya. He also urged the teachers to use their influence to guide the region in the upcoming Malava by-election, stressing the need for visionary, unifying leadership following the death of MP Malulu Injendi.
“Malulu was a leader of integrity who set high standards. Now you must ask yourselves, who can step into those shoes?” Mudavadi posed. “Let us go beyond clannism and choose a leader of character, integrity, and vision.”
The Prime CS assured the delegation of ongoing support, stating he will serve as their patron until a new MP is elected. He also announced plans for inclusive community dialogue involving youth, women, scholars, farmers, and religious leaders to shape Malava’s future.
“The longer you stay on the wrong train, the more expensive it becomes to get back,” he warned, urging the region to align with the Kenya Kwanza administration for sustainable development.
The meeting is seen as a significant step in solidifying the government’s grassroots engagement and reaffirming the critical role teachers play in shaping both education and national discourse.
Written By Rodney Mbua
