Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) National Chair and Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba has called on the government to upgrade the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover for teachers. He emphasized that educators, despite being the largest contributors to the fund, continue to face inadequate healthcare services.
Speaking during the burial of Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA) Chair Johnson Nzioka in Machakos County, Milemba expressed frustration with the ongoing challenges teachers face in accessing quality care through both public and private healthcare facilities under SHA.
“I have engaged the Education Committee Chair on this matter. The medical cover for teachers is underperforming, yet these are individuals who gave up their prior benefits to adopt the current system,” Milemba stated.
He further noted, “Teachers contribute the most—2.7 percent of their payslips—to this fund. It’s unacceptable for them to endure substandard medical coverage.”
Payment Delays for KCSE Examiners Criticized
Milemba also criticized the government for delays in paying last year’s KCSE examiners and supervisors, describing the situation as unjust. Additionally, he highlighted the plight of P1 teachers who have awaited employment since 2010, urging the government to address their grievances.
“The late Nzioka would have passionately demanded that KNEC pay all examiners, supervisors, and invigilators without delay. Exams concluded long ago; it’s time the government honored its commitments,” he said.
Government Response and Tribute to Nzioka
In response, Education Principal Secretary (PS) Belio Kipsang confirmed that all pending payments had been released as of Thursday. He also paid tribute to Nzioka’s contributions to education, particularly his role in advancing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) agenda.
“Through his dedication to the presidential working party, Nzioka played a key role in transitioning junior secondary schools to primary institutions. His efforts ensured smooth transitions for learners from Grade Eight to Grade Nine,” Dr. Kipsang said.
Before his passing, Nzioka had planned a meeting between school heads and Education CS Julius Magoha to address the transition from Grade Nine to Grade Ten.
Remembering Nzioka’s Legacy
Nzioka, who tragically lost his life in a road accident on Mombasa Road in Athi River, was remembered as a transformative leader. Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Collins Oyuu, KICD’s Charles Ong’ondo, and Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti joined others in eulogizing him.
“Nzioka was instrumental in elevating the standards of education and left an indelible mark on the sector. His loss is a significant setback for the country,” said Governor Ndeti.
Nzioka is survived by his wife and two children.
