Nairobi: The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Deputy Treasurer Kennedy Nyamwanda has urged young teachers to embrace a saving culture as a way of safeguarding their mental wellbeing and improving service delivery in schools. Speaking during the 18th Annual General Meeting for Tinderet and Nandi East branches held at Our Lady of Peace Secondary School in Nandi Hills, Nyamwanda expressed concern that most young teachers rush to take bank loans soon after employment without considering the heavy interest rates.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nyamwanda noted that when salaries are significantly reduced by loan deductions, teachers often become stressed, a situation that negatively affects learner performance. He advised, "Young teachers, once employed, should join SACCOs. Teachers have the advantage of working in villages where the cost of living is lower. Save wisely in SACCOs instead of rushing for hefty bank loans."
Nyamwanda encouraged senior teachers to mentor their younger colleagues on the long-term benefits of SACCOs and union membership, urging new teachers to join KNUT to access various welfare and support services. He further appealed to head teachers to foster unity and handle teachers with respect, warning that poor leadership can contribute to rising cases of mental health challenges among educators, particularly the youth.
"Head teachers, as institutional leaders, must guide and support teachers positively. Unity between junior school and basic education teachers is key to improved school performance," he stressed. Nyamwanda also cautioned teachers against engaging in activities that could compromise their integrity and professionalism, such as inappropriate relationships with learners.
Nyamwanda reminded young teachers to remain committed to their duties, adding that safeguarding their wellbeing was crucial in ensuring effective service delivery in schools.