As debate intensifies over the future of education funding in Kenya, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has issued a bold warning: a nationwide teachers’ strike is imminent if the government fails to implement the agreed salary increases under the newly signed Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The Ksh33 billion CBA deal was signed in July 2025 between the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the unions — KNUT, KUPPET, and KUSNET — promising pay rises for teachers across all job groups. However, implementation delays have reignited tensions.
KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu, on July 25, declared that if the CBA is not implemented immediately, teachers will down their tools.
KNUT Issues Strike Threat Amid Budget Uncertainty
“We will not allow the government to make empty promises. If the July pay does not reflect the agreed increments, we’ll paralyze learning in all public institutions,” Oyuu warned.
This announcement comes amid budget uncertainty, with the government struggling to meet rising education costs. While Education PS Prof. Julius Bitok assured Kenyans that free education will not be scrapped, he admitted the Ministry is lobbying Parliament for more funds to meet capitation and exam needs.
Details of the New CBA: What’s at Stake
The new 2025–2029 CBA outlines revised gross monthly salaries for teachers across job groups B5 to D5. Below are the estimated figures:
🧾 Table 1: Gross Salary Estimates Before Tax (Per Month)
Job Group Previous Salary (Ksh) New Salary (Ksh) % Increase
B5 21,756 27,500 26.4%
C1 27,195 35,250 29.6%
C3 43,154 49,600 15%
C4 52,308 58,000 10.9%
D5 159,000 167,415 5%
💸 Estimated Net Pay After Deductions
The real impact of these raises will be felt after mandatory deductions, including:
PAYE (Pay As You Earn) — up to 30%
SHA (Social Health Authority) — 2.75%
Housing Levy — 1.5%
Union Deductions — ~2%
HELB — Varies if loan is active
Sacco/Bank Loan Deductions — Varies
The figures below assume average deductions across teachers with active Sacco/loan obligations and HELB repayments.
🧮 Table 2: Estimated Net Salary After Tax and Deductions
Job Group Gross Salary (Ksh) Estimated Deductions (Ksh) Net Salary (Ksh)
B5 27,500 7,400 20,100
C1 35,250 9,800 25,450
C3 49,600 14,100 35,500
C4 58,000 16,500 41,500
D5 167,415 49,000 118,415
⚠️ Why the Delay Matters
Teachers were anticipating these new rates in their July 2025 payslips, but the delay in implementation has triggered threats of industrial action. KNUT argues the government is reneging on a legally binding agreement.
Unions also fear the ongoing education budget shortfalls could delay the implementation even further or water down the benefits.
🎓 Implications of a Nationwide Strike
If teachers strike:
Over 12 million learners in public schools could be affected.
Disruption will come just before Term 3 — critical for KCPE and KCSE preparations.
The government may be forced into emergency funding or legal challenges.
🧾 Quote from Education PS Bitok
“The government has no intention of scrapping free education. We are working with Parliament to increase allocations and ensure capitation and examination funds are adequately provided.” — Prof. Julius Bitok, PS Education
✅ Conclusion: Government Must Act Fast
With rising public pressure, increased cost of living, and budget bottlenecks, the ball is now firmly in the government’s court. For teachers, this is not just about money — it’s about honour, dignity, and trust.
If Parliament fails to allocate funds in time for August payroll, Kenya may witness one of the largest teacher strikes in recent years.
