By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 4 April 2026 - Newly elected Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers, Collins Oyuu, has assumed a renewed mandate with a clear focus on internal reforms, teacher welfare, and strengthening the union’s bargaining power following national elections held at Tom Mboya Labour College.
Oyuu, who was returned unopposed, declared that the union had stabilized after a difficult period and is now positioned to pursue substantive gains for its members. He credited the recovery to coordinated efforts across the union’s leadership structures, including the National Executive Council and branch officials.
The elections saw most top positions filled without contest, including National Chairman Patrick Karinga, First Vice Chairman Malel Langat, and Second Vice Chairman Aggrey Namisi. Deputy Secretary General Hesbon Otieno and National Treasurer James Ndiku were also elected unopposed, alongside other senior officials.
With the leadership structure now settled, attention shifts to the union’s policy priorities. Oyuu identified the review of the Collective Bargaining Agreement cycle as a key agenda, proposing a reduction from four years to three to allow more frequent negotiations on salaries and working conditions.
He also placed emphasis on addressing the ongoing teacher shortage, calling for sustained recruitment and improved allocation of resources within the education sector. Promotion structures remain another focus area, with the union seeking a more transparent and equitable system to ensure career progression for teachers.
Oyuu pointed to gains made over the past five years, including increased teacher employment, rollout of the competency-based curriculum, and improved engagement with government institutions. However, he maintained that these steps are insufficient without further structural adjustments.
The KNUT leadership also signaled plans to expand membership as part of efforts to reinforce its negotiating position. Union officials say broader representation will strengthen their leverage in engagements with the government and education stakeholders.
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At the same time, Oyuu took a firm stance against internal disputes that previously affected the union, criticizing individuals who pursued legal action against KNUT leadership. He acknowledged support from Francis Atwoli during that period, highlighting cooperation with the wider trade union movement.
National Chairman Karinga said the elections were conducted in an orderly manner and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to advancing teachers’ welfare and professional development.
KNUT now enters a critical phase where its leadership will be expected to translate its agenda into measurable outcomes. Key issues—including staffing gaps, remuneration, and implementation of education reforms—are likely to define its engagement with the government in the coming term.
The effectiveness of the new mandate will largely depend on the union’s ability to secure policy concessions and deliver tangible improvements for teachers within an evolving education landscape.
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