In our country, teachers play an important role in society of moulding the young of our nation into responsible and productive citizens. These same teachers and their actions will be called into question if they do not fit into these parameters. What we have seen on TV of teachers tearing up exam papers, roughing up their colleagues who are refusing for not participating in the strike cannot be wished away. These actions of this industrial action are not only irresponsible, but also they are a dangerous example to the same group of young ones they are trying to mentor and teach.
In a country like Kenya, students spend majority of their earlier stages of life interacting with teachers, so how students turn out is highly influenced by their teachers. While it is a fact that demonstrating or demanding rights peacefully to bring change or communicate dissatisfaction is intertwined in the constitution, it is however not right to trample on the rights of other in the process. Because others do have the right to peace and quiet, and when the teachers demonstrate like they are, they cause noise and commotion to people who are not involved in the first place.
It would be great if Kenyan teachers showed to the world that difference in opinions, must not always result in loss of respect for the rights of others, or damage to others’ property. You can still demonstrate peacefully and achieve what you will, without causing this sort of public damage.
Global economic dynamics have also impacted Kenya negatively as much as other countries. Many governments have even opted to take to adopt drastic measures to keep their nations afloat. We therefore urge teachers to act with restraint and put the interest of the country first as the government works to find a solution to the impasse.
A speedy and fair resolution between both parties will be a win for all, and Kenya’s brand image as a whole. This is when given the fact that governance plays a key role in shaping how a country is perceived by other nations of the world. Other countries of the world assess brand image of a certain nation through the international media, which determines to a great extent the stability rating a country will be awarded.
The advantage to a country like Kenya of positive national image will be increased investment in both the private and public sector, which will in turn secure the future for the youth in our country. This type of investment will in turn contribute the much needed revenues the government needs to even raise salaries and wages of public servants, and teachers included.
