Mudavadi Sees Off Kenyan Teachers To The United States After Securing New Jobs
A number of Kenyan teachers left the country for the United States on Monday night to start new jobs there.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Diaspora and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi, as well as PS Roseline Njogu, witnessed the transaction.
“I don’t know whether in five years’ time, your accent will be different,” Mudavadi said in jest when he stood to deliver his speech.
According to a recruitment agency official, approximately 70 teachers were hired in the United States out of a group of 150 who expressed an interest in working in American schools.
Today, we proudly send-off a cohort of Kenyan teachers who have secured job placements in various district schools across the United States of America. pic.twitter.com/0sRIlovVCQ
— Musalia W Mudavadi (@MusaliaMudavadi) July 29, 2024
She said Baltimore City Schools requested the teachers last year.
“You are good workers, you communicate very well and this is why comparatively if you take a Kenyan in the Diaspora and some of our other colleagues from the continent in the Diaspora there’s an inclination to have a Kenyan as the favourite,” he said.
“Appreciate what are the laws in that country and always remember that the moment you are on that plane and you land, you are now under a different jurisdiction and therefore you must respect the laws and regulations of that land.”
While acknowledging Kenyans’ global reputation as dedicated workers, the Prime CS advised the teachers to stay focused, disciplined, and follow the laws of the host country.
Mudavadi stated that there have been instances where Kenyans have gotten themselves in trouble after moving abroad by attempting to do things in unacceptable ways.
“Be very careful because you have to respect the code of ethics and regulations in those countries,” he said.
During a town hall meeting with Mombasa residents on Sunday night, President William Ruto stated that one way his government is creating jobs is through labor export to foreign countries.
Earlier that day, while addressing residents of Mwatate in Taita Taveta county, Ruto stated that those who secure jobs abroad will have their passports processed within a week, with the government covering the flight costs.
“I have planned that anyone who wants to go abroad for work is given a passport and other needed documents within a week. They will not need to pay for the air ticket, we shall pay for the ticket,” he said.
Mudavadi, on the other hand, remained noncommittal on this promise, despite acknowledging the teachers’ exorbitant travel expenses.
“I want to assure you that the government of Kenya will always be as supportive as it can be. Today let me not rush and make any promises that I may not deliver,” he said.
“There is a famous saying that when you are in public space promise what you can deliver and deliver what you promise but we have heard you that support is necessary in a number of areas,” he added.
Mudavadi stated that the government will look into how to expedite visa acquisition.
They’ll also contribute to the flight costs “because putting together this journey can also be expensive”.
“We will reflect on it carefully as we go forward,” he said.
PS Njogu stated that they are pleased to see more Kenyans finding good opportunities in places far from home and are willing and daring to travel and explore.
“Kudos to you and we are wishing you all the best,” she said.
Mudavadi Sees Off Kenyan Teachers To The United States After Securing New Jobs