KNUT Demands Clear Social Media Rules for Teachers
The Kenya National Union of Teachers has called on the Teachers Service Commission to provide specific guidance on what constitutes unacceptable behaviour by educators on digital platforms.
The appeal follows a recent warning from the Commission against cyberbullying, harassment and the sharing of offensive material online. Union leaders argue that the current directive risks appearing too broad and could discourage legitimate professional use of social media.
Secretary General Collins Oyuu emphasised that any circular should clearly distinguish between positive engagement and genuine misuse of the platforms. Speaking in Bomet, he urged the Commission to avoid blanket statements and instead outline precisely what is condemned while also acknowledging constructive applications. “The warning that you gave about the use of social media should be very specific on misuse and not the positive use of social media. Don’t make your statement so blanket. Be specific about what you condemn, and also take time to talk about what you support,” Oyuu said.
Oyuu reminded teachers that they serve as role models whose actions extend beyond the classroom. He stressed that content posted online creates a permanent digital record and therefore requires careful consideration both on and off duty. “A teacher should teach even by action, not only in class, but by what they do, because we are out to set examples, especially to young learners and even the youth,” he added, while calling on all members to use social media responsibly as professionals and opinion shapers in society.
Union first vice national chairperson Malel Langat described the digital space as a grey area, noting that many teachers now employ platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and WhatsApp to support learning as schools receive more devices. He cautioned that overly restrictive measures could undermine constitutional gains and urged the Commission to craft guidelines that protect teachers’ rights while still addressing clear breaches of cybercrime laws.
Responding on behalf of the Commission, acting Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei reiterated that the Teachers Code of Conduct and Ethics applies equally in the online sphere. She warned that those engaging in cyberbullying or other unprofessional conduct face disciplinary action under existing laws and directed teachers to observe specific clauses of the 2015 Code. The exchange highlights ongoing efforts to balance professional standards with the growing role of digital tools in education across the country.
