Principal Relocates Teacher from Staffroom to Under Tree, Sparks Outrage.
A concerning incident between a school principal and a Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teacher has sparked public outrage.
A video, widely circulated online, shows the principal enforcing an inappropriate demand, forcing the teacher to sit under a tree rather than in the designated staff room, breaching acceptable workplace conduct.
The footage, as reported by Mwalimunews.com, depicts the principal asserting his authority by ordering the intern teacher to leave the staff room and sit outside.
“You cannot join the staff room, I’m telling you…”
In the video, the intern teacher defended his stance, stating that it was unreasonable to be denied a seat in the staff room, especially when there was ample space available.
Despite the teacher’s protest, claiming the right to remain in the staff room with colleagues, the principal insisted on the relocation, leading to a tense confrontation.
“I cannot get out of the school compound. You cannot dictate where I’m supposed to be sitting, we have a staff room for the members all the members of Staff,……you you cannot locate me under tree,” the teacher said.
The principal’s insistence to enforce the rule led to a heated exchange, with the teacher standing firm on the need for equal treatment.
Public Condemnation and Concerns
The principal’s actions have drawn widespread criticism, viewed as an attempt to intimidate the intern teacher, and raising concerns about the treatment of interns in Kenyan schools.
This incident highlights the pressing need for respect and professionalism within educational institutions. Maintaining mutual respect among school staff is essential for fostering a harmonious working environment.
As the video continues to circulate, calls for the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to step in are growing. Many view the principal’s behavior as a reflection of poor leadership skills, which could be addressed through proper guidance and intervention.
The incident has also sparked a wider conversation about the conduct of school administrators and their treatment of staff.
In recent years, reports of principals or headteachers abusing their authority have become more common, with this case further tarnishing the reputation of the teaching profession.
Online commentators expressed frustration over the lack of professionalism demonstrated by the principal, questioning how such actions might affect the students’ learning environment.
Call for Reform and Oversight
The need for reform within the education sector, particularly concerning how leaders treat subordinates, is increasingly evident.
School principals, as role models, are expected to uphold high standards of respect and discipline. This event serves as a reminder that authority should always be exercised responsibly, with consideration for the dignity of others.
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This alarming incident has reignited discussions on the importance of leadership training in Kenyan schools. It also brings attention to the treatment of intern teachers in the workplace.
Principal Relocates JSS Teacher from Staffroom to Under Tree, Sparks Outrage.