The government’s recent announcement brings good news for approximately 26,000 contract teachers in Junior Secondary Schools who will transition to permanent and pensionable positions starting July 1st, 2023.

This decision comes as a relief to many teachers who have expressed concerns about their wages, which some argue were insufficient to sustain their livelihoods. Previously, Junior Secondary School interns were earning a monthly salary of Sh20,000, while those in lower primary received Sh15,000. Notably, these intern teachers did not receive any allowances or health insurance benefits.

With their protests spanning over two weeks, the question arises: what will their earnings look like under permanent and pensionable terms?

The majority of these interns hold degrees or diplomas. Upon confirmation, they will be placed in job group C2, equivalent to senior teachers at the primary school level. Salaries within this group range from Sh34,955 to a maximum of Sh43,694.

Newly appointed teachers will start at Sh34,955, with automatic salary increases every three years. Additionally, those residing in Nairobi will receive a housing allowance of Sh16,500, while those in major and minor municipalities will receive Sh12,800 and Sh9,600 respectively. Teachers in other areas will receive Sh7,500 as a housing allowance.

Furthermore, teachers under job group C2 will receive an annual leave allowance of Sh6,000, along with a commuter allowance of Sh4,000. Those working in hardship areas will also receive a hardship allowance of Sh10,900.

In addition to these benefits, teachers will have access to a health insurance scheme provided by their employer.