TSC Confirms Intern Teachers .
TSC Confirms Intern Teachers . Confirmation of Intern Teachers Transitioning to Permanent and Pensionable Status.
Introduction
In a significant move, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is set to employ 26,000 intern teachers at primary and junior secondary schools (JSS) under permanent and pensionable conditions, marking a significant shift in their employment status. This transformation, expected to commence in January 2025, comes at a cost of KSh8.3 billion, an investment that has stirred anticipation and jubilation among the intern teachers.
Financial Allocation and Budget Adjustments
The National Treasury has allocated KSh364.910 billion to the Teachers Service Commission for the fiscal year 2024–2025, as indicated in the draft budget estimates. However, the approved 2024 Budget Policy Statement reveals an allocation of KSh369.9 billion, reflecting adjustments in ongoing and development expenses. Notably, ongoing expenses have seen a decrease of KSh5.033 billion, with development expenses experiencing a KSh33 million reduction.
Ongoing Protests Amidst Budget Adjustments
Amidst these budgetary changes, junior secondary school (JSS) intern teachers have been engaged in ongoing protests, refusing to return to their classrooms even as the second term commences this week. Their grievances stem from the breach of their right to a fair and permanent job, as ruled by the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC). The court found fault in their employment as interns, lacking the contractually promised pension benefits.
Addressing Teacher Shortage
To address the persistent teacher shortage in primary and JSS schools, the TSC has allocated KSh4.68 billion to hire an additional 20,000 interns for these educational institutions. In addition, the TSC plans to invest KSh1 billion in teacher advancements, signaling a proactive approach towards enhancing the teaching workforce and addressing educational needs.
Investment in Career Progression
The TSC’s commitment to career progression is evident in its recent allocation of resources towards promoting 36,505 teachers to higher grades in accordance with the Career Progression Guidelines (CPG). This investment reflects the commission’s dedication to recognizing and rewarding the efforts of teachers, many of whom have awaited promotions after years of stagnation in their respective job categories.
By prioritizing the transition of intern teachers to permanent and pensionable status, along with strategic investments in addressing teacher shortage and promoting career progression, the TSC demonstrates its commitment to fostering a stable and empowered teaching workforce for the betterment of education in Kenya.
