What Is KUPPET SWAL? Teachers Protest New TSC Payslip Deductions

Teachers Furious Over Unexplained ‘KUPPET SWAL’ Deductions

Thousands of teachers under the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) were shocked to discover a new, unexplained deduction labeled ‘KUPPET SWAL’ on their July 2024 payslips. The surprise fee has sparked outrage, with educators demanding immediate answers from union officials and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

This deduction comes at a critical time—just as teachers expected a salary increase under the newly implemented 2025-2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Instead of celebrating a pay rise, many found their take-home pay reduced further, adding to financial strain from other mandatory deductions like:

• 1.8% KUPPET membership fee
• Housing Levy
• Social Health Authority (SHA) contributions

What Is ‘KUPPET SWAL’? (The Big Mystery)

As of now, KUPPET has not issued an official explanation, leaving teachers frustrated and confused. Speculations suggest that ‘SWAL’ could stand for:

• Savings and Welfare Association Loan – A union-backed savings or loan scheme.
• Special Welfare Advance Levy – An emergency fund deduction.
• Staff Welfare Association Levy – A mandatory welfare contribution.

However, without transparent communication, teachers feel betrayed by an unexplained cut in their hard-earned salaries.

Teachers Speak Out: “We Demand a Refund!”

Affected educators, particularly from Nakuru Branch, have voiced their anger, calling the deduction “unlawful” and demanding:
✔ Immediate stoppage of the KUPPET SWAL deduction.
✔ Full refund of deducted amounts.
✔ Clear explanation from KUPPET’s national office.
✔ TSC intervention to block unauthorized payroll deductions.

“We were expecting to smile with the CBA increment, but instead, we’re bleeding. This is unacceptable!” – Frustrated KUPPET member

Why This Deduction Is Controversial

1. No Prior Notice – Teachers were not consulted or informed before the deduction appeared.
2. Adds to Existing Financial Pressure – With rising living costs, every shilling counts.
3. Raises Trust Issues – If KUPPET can deduct fees without consent, what else could happen?
4. TSC’s Role in Question – How was this deduction approved without proper teacher awareness?

What Happens Next?

• KUPPET must issue a statement clarifying the purpose of SWAL deductions.
• TSC should investigate whether proper procedures were followed.
• Teachers may take legal action if the union fails to provide answers.

Final Thoughts: Transparency Is Key

Unions exist to protect teachers, not burden them with surprise fees. If KUPPET intended this as a welfare or savings plan, they should have engaged members first.

For now, teachers are left in the dark—waiting, worrying, and demanding accountability.

What do YOU think? Should unions deduct fees without consent? Share your thoughts in the comments!