The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has successfully concluded a landmark four-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the country’s major teachers' unions — a historic accord aimed at substantially improving the welfare and remuneration of over 400,000 educators across Kenya.

The agreement, signed on Friday, July 18, 2025, brings together the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), and the Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET). The deal will be implemented in phases between July 2025 and June 2029, with an estimated total cost of KSh 33.7 billion to the exchequer.

What’s in the Agreement?

This new CBA marks a pivotal milestone in the education sector, effectively diffusing tensions that had been escalating due to demands for better pay and working conditions. Prior to the signing, unions had signaled possible industrial action over stalled negotiations.

Unlike previous CBAs that leaned more heavily on non-monetary provisions, this agreement places a strong emphasis on direct monetary benefits.

• Phase 1, which focuses on salary increments, will cost approximately KSh 2.4 billion and is scheduled for completion by July 2026.

• Overall, teachers will receive salary adjustments ranging from 5% to 29.5%, with the most substantial raises earmarked for those in lower job groups (Grades B5 to C1), aiming to bridge the disparity in compensation across teaching cadres.

Voices from the Unions

Image Above: Collins Oyuu. Credit: KNQA

KNUT Secretary-General Collins Oyuu hailed the agreement as a major win,

especially for junior teachers, who have historically borne the brunt of low pay and poor working conditions.