TSC Addresses Teacher Intern Protests, Issues Directive

TSC Addresses Teacher Intern Protests, Issues Directive

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has responded to recent media reports regarding protests by teacher interns, urging them to comply with a court order and return to their respective schools. Dr. Jamleck Muturi John, Chairman of the TSC, emphasized the importance of teachers returning to their duties, as teaching and learning activities officially resumed in all public schools on May 13, 2024.

In a press release, Dr. Muturi reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to resolving issues affecting the teaching service and ensuring the concerns of all stakeholders are addressed. He highlighted the Teacher Internship Programme as a government initiative aimed at providing practical work experience for educators.

However, the legitimacy of the program has been challenged by the Forum for Good Governance and Human Rights, leading to a court petition. Although the court ruled in favor of the petitioner, the judgment has been stayed until August 1, 2024, allowing the program to continue temporarily.

Meanwhile, junior secondary school (JSS) teachers across the country staged a protest, demanding permanent and pensionable employment. Led by the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), these teachers argue that they possess the necessary qualifications and licenses to teach and question why they remain unemployed.

Court documents reveal that the TSC lacks the financial resources to convert the 46,000 interns to permanent positions due to a lack of appropriation by the national assembly in the current financial year. This ongoing dispute has disrupted learning in JSSs nationwide, leaving students stranded as teachers boycott classes.

TSC Addresses Teacher Intern Protests, Issues Directive