JSS Intern Teacher Hiring Postponed Indefinitely .
JSS Intern Teacher Hiring Postponed Indefinitely . JSS Intern Teacher Hiring Postponed Indefinitely
Uncertainty for 46,000 JSS Teacher Interns
The future employment prospects for 46,000 Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher interns have been thrown into uncertainty. This follows a proposal by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u to cut Sh18.9 billion from the Teachers Service Commission’s (TSC) budget. The budget was intended for confirming these interns into permanent positions.
Budget Cut Decision
The proposed budget cut aims to address Kenya’s Sh200 billion budget deficit . This is after lawmakers removed certain tax proposals from the Finance Bill 2024. Ndung’u emphasized the necessity of postponing the confirmation of interns and the hiring of new JSS teachers.
Setback for TSC and Teachers
This decision deals a significant setback to both the TSC and teachers . Especially those who have been anticipating confirmation amidst strikes, layoffs, and legal battles. Initially allocated Sh13.4 billion, the TSC estimated needing Sh16.6 billion, leaving a substantial funding gap.
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Legislative Response
The National Assembly Education Committee was scheduled to discuss this matter with the TSC to seek solutions for the funding shortfall. Meanwhile, recent court decisions have halted plans to convert interns to permanent and pensionable terms, pending resolution of a case filed by the Nancy Macharia-led commission.
Continuing Legal Challenges
The interns will continue working under their current terms while the legal battle ensues. TSC argues that the lack of budgeted funds for permanent employment jeopardizes the rights of learners in public schools, as guaranteed by the Constitution.
 New Measures and Government Impact
Treasury’s new measures, detailed in a letter to the National Assembly’s clerk dated June 19, affect all branches of government, ministries, departments, and agencies. These measures hinge on the outcome of ongoing demonstrations against the Finance Bill, which could further delay the interns’ confirmation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the indefinite postponement of JSS intern teacher hiring underscores the challenges faced by the TSC and the education sector amid budget constraints and legal uncertainties. The decision reflects broader fiscal pressures and ongoing efforts to address Kenya’s economic challenges amidst public demonstrations.
