The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has issued a stern warning to the government, threatening to boycott the upcoming 2026 national examinations if outstanding allowances from last year’s exams are not paid promptly.
Speaking during the funeral of KNUT member Lucy Wambui Maina in Gatero village, Laikipia West Constituency, union officials expressed frustration over delayed payments. They emphasized that no teacher should be expected to participate in invigilation or supervision of the exams until the pending dues are cleared.
Unpaid Allowances Total Ksh2.5 Billion
KNUT leaders, including National Chairman Dr. Patrick Karinga, Michael Muna, and George Gatundu, revealed that approximately Ksh2.5 billion in examination-related allowances remain unpaid. These arrears relate to work done during last year’s national exams.
“We want that money back. If that does not happen, do not expect any teacher to participate in any invigilation or supervision of the 2026 examinations,” Dr. Karinga stated.
Funds Allocated but Not Disbursed
The union challenged reports that Ksh1.5 billion had been allocated for paying teachers, insisting that the funds have not reached the intended recipients. Teachers have reportedly been supervising exams without receiving their allowances despite repeated assurances.
Impact on Teachers and Exam Administration
KNUT highlighted the financial strain on teachers, with some struggling to afford medical treatment due to unpaid dues. The union warned that the ongoing delays have severely affected educators’ livelihoods and called the current system "broken."
The looming exam period has intensified concerns about the potential disruption in exam administration if the dispute remains unresolved.
With the 2026 national exams only months away, KNUT’s ultimatum puts pressure on the government to settle the arrears and avoid a possible confrontation that could affect the country’s education calendar.
