State House Teachers’ Meeting: 10 Key Takeaways from the President’s Address

The eagerly awaited meeting between the President of Kenya and teachers’ representatives at State House has concluded with far-reaching announcements that promise to transform the teaching profession. The meeting, held on September 13, 2025, brought together the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), unions, education associations, and other stakeholders.

In his address, the President outlined bold reforms and welfare packages designed to uplift teachers, strengthen the education system, and restore dignity to the profession. From improved promotions to faster retirement benefits, teachers now have renewed hope for a brighter future.

This comes just days after teachers voiced their concerns in a major dialogue about the future of education, which we covered in Teachers’ Voice at State House 2025. The State House meeting can be seen as a direct response to those concerns, highlighting the government’s commitment to taking teachers’ grievances seriously.

Here are the 10 key takeaways from the President’s address at State House:

1. Teachers’ Medical Cover Review

The President acknowledged growing concerns about the teachers’ medical scheme, noting that many educators and their families have struggled to access services. He announced that the government will review the current medical cover to align it with modern health needs.

This means teachers can expect wider coverage, better access to quality healthcare, and improved support for dependents. With rising medical costs and the challenges of chronic illnesses, this review could greatly reduce financial stress on educators.

2. Housing Allocation for Teachers

One of the most exciting announcements was that 20% of affordable housing units under the government’s agenda will be set aside specifically for teachers.

This initiative comes as a huge relief for thousands of teachers who spend a large portion of their salaries on rent. With dedicated allocations, teachers will now stand a fair chance to own homes, live with dignity, and reduce long-term financial burdens. Homeownership also adds stability, helping teachers settle in communities for longer periods.

3. Recruitment of TVET Teachers

The technical and vocational education sector has suffered from staffing shortages for years. To address this, the President confirmed that between 3,000 and 4,000 TVET teachers will be recruited by January 2026.

This will bridge the gap in technical institutions, expand training opportunities, and enhance skills development for learners. More trainers in TVET means better equipped graduates who can serve the growing job market in manufacturing, ICT, construction, and other critical industries.

4. CBA Implementation Period Review

Perhaps the most celebrated announcement was the reduction of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) implementation period from four years to two years.

Teachers’ unions, including KNUT, KUPPET, KESSHA, and KEPSHA, will now negotiate CBAs that allow educators to enjoy benefits faster. This reform ensures quicker salary adjustments, allowances, and welfare improvements—significantly easing financial pressures on teachers and boosting morale across the profession.

5. Teacher Employment and Deployment Criteria

The President recognized frustrations among unemployed teachers who have waited years for recruitment. To correct this, the government will give more weight to the year of graduation during interviews.

This is a game changer for graduates who have been out of school for over a decade. For instance, a teacher who graduated in 2010 but has not been absorbed will now stand a better chance than a recent graduate. The reform promises fairness and transparency in employment opportunities.

6. Career Progression Guidelines (CPG) Review

Promotions have long been a thorny issue. The President announced sweeping changes, including doubling resources for teacher promotions beginning next year, an upward review of job groups for primary school headteachers to reflect their leadership roles, and immediate implementation of revised CPG to ensure fairness.

This is expected to motivate teachers, reduce stagnation, and reward dedication. Promotions also improve teacher retention, as educators feel recognized for their years of service.

7. Support for Schools with Low Enrolment

Many rural schools face closure due to low student numbers, which translates into less funding. To cushion them, the government will introduce a minimum capitation package to ensure such schools remain operational.

This will be a lifeline for schools in marginalized areas, ensuring learners in remote regions continue accessing education without being forced to travel long distances.

8. Support for Teachers Living with Disabilities

The President reaffirmed inclusivity by announcing tailored support for teachers with disabilities. Some will be prioritized for promotions, while the disability allowance will be reviewed upwards from the current Ksh 20,000.

This is not just financial relief—it’s a recognition of the unique challenges faced by differently abled teachers. The government’s commitment signals a more inclusive education system where no teacher is left behind.

9. Retirement Benefits Reform

One of the most groundbreaking reforms is the commitment to process and pay retirement benefits within one day after retirement.

This will end the nightmare of teachers waiting months or years for pensions. Immediate access to benefits ensures retirees enjoy dignity, stability, and peace of mind after decades of service to the nation. If implemented effectively, this will be one of the most transformative welfare changes in Kenya’s education sector.

10. Employment of Teachers Above 45 Years

For years, teachers above 45 were locked out of recruitment opportunities. In a bold shift, the President announced that this group will now be eligible for employment.

This is a recognition of experience, maturity, and the wealth of knowledge these teachers bring. It also ensures that many trained teachers who missed earlier recruitment windows are not abandoned despite their qualifications.

What Was Not Addressed: Junior Secondary Schools

Interestingly, the President’s address did not touch on the contentious issue of Junior Secondary Schools’ autonomy. Stakeholders expected clarity on whether JSS would be managed independently from primary schools.

The omission suggests the government is still reviewing the matter. Teachers will be keenly watching for further announcements, as JSS autonomy remains one of the most pressing debates in Kenya’s education system.

Reactions from Teachers and Stakeholders

The announcements were met with applause from union leaders, who praised the government’s willingness to address long-standing challenges. Many teachers expressed optimism that reforms could transform their careers and restore dignity to the profession.

However, union officials cautioned that promises must translate into action. KNUT and KUPPET leaders stressed that teachers would not tolerate delays or partial implementation. Stakeholders want the reforms fully funded and monitored to prevent backtracking.

Final Thoughts

The State House teachers’ meeting was more than symbolic—it marked a turning point. By addressing medical cover, housing, promotions, pensions, and recruitment fairness, the President sent a clear message that teachers are central to Kenya’s future.

When combined with the discussions captured in Teachers’ Voice at State House 2025, it is evident that Kenya’s education agenda is shifting towards inclusivity, welfare, and professional dignity.

If the reforms are implemented effectively, they will not only uplift teachers but also improve learner outcomes, strengthen trust in government institutions, and enhance Kenya’s overall education system. Teachers now wait eagerly for action, not just promises.