KNUT survey reveals majority of Kenyan teachers face debt crisis, emotional stress

The KNUT Teachers’ Wellness and Engagement Research Report indicates that 97% of teachers live from paycheck to paycheck with no savings left at the end of the month, while 92% are vulnerable to unexpected expenses. 

The findings further show that 88% are unable to service debts while maintaining their standard of living, highlighting deepening financial instability within the teaching profession.

According to the report, 60% of teachers experience burnout, 18% are in financial distress, and 12% have had suicidal thoughts. 

It also notes that four in five educators are under persistent financial stress, while many lack retirement plans or long-term safety nets, leaving them exposed to ongoing economic insecurity.

The findings were released during the launch of the report in Nairobi on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, where Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba acknowledged the concerns raised and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving teachers’ welfare.

Ogamba said the government is implementing measures to address teacher shortages, improve working conditions, and support career progression through promotions. 

He noted that Ksh 950 million has been allocated for retooling teachers under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), while Ksh 2 billion has been set aside for promotions within the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in the 2026/2027 financial year.

“Teachers are indispensable; the system will never thrive if the teacher isn’t thriving and is not fully engaged, as this affects learners. This is a reality we appreciate, and we will take measures to promote their wellness,” he said.

He added that, unlike in previous years when promotions depended on available vacancies, the government has in recent years, introduced dedicated funding to make the process more predictable, with allocations expected to increase further in future budgets.

Ogamba further emphasised the need for urgent intervention to address the challenges highlighted in the report, citing global examples of teacher investment, including Finland, where teaching is among the most valued professions.

“We must think about what we should do to reduce those numbers. In Finland, the highest-paid professional is a teacher. We need to move our teachers from where they are to where they are supposed to be,” he said.