KNUT Rejects TSC Salaries Deduction For ICT Training

KNUT Rejects TSC Salaries Deduction For ICT Training

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is planning to deduct Ksh. 2,500 from the teachers salaries to find the mandatory ICT training for teachers, TSC Secretariat staff and grade 8 learners. This move has been rejected by the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Bomet Branch who have swore that teachers will never fund the program.

According to the circular dated March 26, 2024 and signed by the Teachers Service Commission CEO Nancy macharia, highlighted that all teachers, TSC Secretariat staff and grade 8 learners will enroll in mandatory digital skills that will see these parties part with Ksh. 2,500 per participant.

The circular noted that the government intends to equip over 20 million Kenyans with digital skills that will enable to to access electronic services. The curriculum for this has been developed and its meant to offer short courses for that will involve Foundation, basic, intermediate and advanced digital skills for the citizens and the public sector.

This program is self sponsored and certification will be done upon successful assessment where the first phase is targeting to train 5 million learners through a consortium of ICT Training organization.

The TSC CEO Nancy Macharia directed all county, Sub-County and regional directors to make the circular available for all teachers with their jurisdiction.

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) criticized the program after the commission announced that it will not cover the training costs for teachers and shifted the burden to teachers.

KNUT Rejects TSC Salaries Deduction For ICT Training

Speaking at the funeral in Kimori, Konoin Sub-County, Mitei said that while the program may be beneficial, teachers will not afford another deduction from their salaries to fund the program expressing his displeasure. Mitei said the government should cover the training costs of it indeed supports growth of teachers.

Metei further said the commission should consider selecting teachers with teaching background as its commissioners terming leaving out teachers unacceptable.

He expressed his dissatisfaction to the TSC’s proposal to deduct Teachers’ salaries to fund the programs citing that teachers are also undergoing economic hardships and therefore, they should not be subjected to additional financial constraints.

On the side of learners and parents, none has been seen advocating for them since they are also struggling with finances due to the high cost of living hence they can not afford to pay for the program.