The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has reignited debate over the controversial delocalisation policy, claiming it is being implemented covertly despite being officially scrapped in 2022. Speaking at a press briefing, KNUT Secretary-General Collins Oyuu accused the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) of tying promotions to teachers’ willingness to relocate to specific regions, a move that many say resembles the much-maligned policy.
Introduced in 2018, the delocalisation policy aimed to transfer teachers who had served in one location for extended periods to new regions, with the intent of fostering diversity and equity. However, it faced widespread criticism from educators and unions, who argued it disrupted families and lowered morale. Following mounting pressure, the policy was officially reversed in 2022.
Oyuu, however, suggested that the TSC may be circumventing the reversal by linking promotions to regional transfers. “We have received complaints from our members that they are only being considered for promotions if they agree to work in specific, often far-flung areas,” he stated. He warned that such practices could erode trust between teachers and the commission.
This revelation comes as KNUT begins to outline issues for the 2025-2029 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Oyuu emphasized the need for fair and transparent promotion policies, warning against any actions that could be interpreted as reintroducing delocalisation through the backdoor.
The TSC has not yet commented on the allegations. However, KNUT has called for immediate dialogue to address these concerns and ensure that teacher promotions are based on merit rather than conditions that may strain their personal and professional lives.
With tensions mounting, the education sector could be heading for another standoff if these claims are not resolved amicably. Is delocalisation truly back, or is this a new policy under an old guise?
