Introduction
In a significant development for Kenya’s education sector, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is set to implement a salary increment for teachers in August 2025, with the raise backdated to 1st July 2025. This comes as the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) engage in intense Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations with the TSC for the 2025-2029 period.
This article covers:
✔ Latest updates on the TSC salary increment
✔ Key demands from teachers’ unions (KUPPET & KNUT)
✔ How much teachers could earn under the new CBA
✔ Potential challenges and next steps
Salary Increment Details: When Will Teachers Get Paid?
Key Facts
- The current CBA (2021-2025) expired on 30th June 2025.
- The new CBA will cover 1st July 2025 to 30th June 2029.
- Teachers will not receive the increment in July due to ongoing negotiations.
- The August payroll will reflect the new salaries, backdated to 1st July.
Why the Delay?
- TSC and unions are still negotiating the final figures.
- KUPPET has proposed a 100% increase for the lowest-paid teachers (Job Group B5).
- KNUT is demanding a 60% basic salary hike plus 30% allowance increase.
KUPPET’s Key Demands in the 2025-2029 CBA
1. Salary Increment Structure
- 100% raise for lowest-paid teachers (B5): From Ksh 23,830 to Ksh 47,660.
- 50% raise for highest-paid teachers (D5).
- Harmonized house allowances across all regions.
2. Teacher Promotions
- Automatic promotions and collapsing of job clusters (C4 & C5).
- Increased promotion budget (from Ksh 1B to Ksh 1.7B).
3. Intern Teachers’ Recognition
- Service by 2023 intern teachers to count towards promotions and permanent employment.
4. Improved Welfare Benefits
- Better Minet insurance coverage.
- 6-month salary grace period after a spouse’s death.
- Compensation for non-voluntary transfers.
KNUT’s Major Proposals
1. Salary and Allowance Adjustments
- 60% basic salary increase over four years.
- 30% rise in allowances (hardship, commuter, leave).
2. Hardship Allowance Review
- Joint TSC-KNUT committee to review hardship areas.
- 10% risk allowance for science/technical teachers.
3. Leave and Sick Leave Benefits
- 30 working days’ annual leave with full pay.
- 1-year sick leave (first 180 days full pay, next 180 days half pay).
Challenges in the CBA Negotiations
1. Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) Restrictions
- The Supreme Court recently ruled that only the SRC can approve public sector salary changes.
- SRC has previously opposed major pay hikes due to Kenya’s high wage bill.
2. Strike Threats and Deadlocks
- KNUT issued a 7-day strike notice in early July but backed down after TSC failed to respond.
- KUPPET continues negotiations, with a final meeting expected before 20th July.
3. Inflation and Cost of Living
- Teachers argue that salaries must match inflation (currently 6.8%).
- Without a raise, many educators struggle with rising food, fuel, and housing costs.
What Teachers Should Expect Next
Possible Outcomes
✅ August Salary Slip: Increment reflected, backdated to July.
✅ Allowance Adjustments: Hardship, commuter, and leave allowances may increase.
✅ Promotions: Faster processing for eligible teachers.
Potential Risks
⚠ SRC Intervention: If SRC rejects the proposed hikes, TSC may offer a smaller increase.
⚠ Further Delays: If talks stall, the increment could be pushed to September.
Conclusion: Will Teachers Get a Fair Deal?
The August salary increment is a step forward, but final figures remain uncertain. While KUPPET and KNUT push for major raises, the SRC’s influence could limit the final agreement.
📢 Key Takeaways:
✔ Increment starts in August but backdated to July.
✔ Lowest-paid teachers could see a major boost (up to 100%).
✔ SRC’s approval is critical—final numbers may change.
🔗 Follow Official Updates:
- TSC Website: www.tsc.go.ke
- KUPPET/KNUT Social Media for latest CBA news.
💬 What do you think about the proposed salary increase? Share your views below!