The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has discontinued the Primary Teachers Certificate Training Course, commonly referred to as P1, as part of its ongoing review of the legislation governing the teaching profession in Kenya. This decision has sparked varied reactions from stakeholders within the sector.
Among the proposed legislative changes is one that establishes the entry qualification for teacher training, now set at the diploma level. Under these new guidelines, TSC suggests that prospective teachers must attain a minimum grade of C plain overall, with at least a D+ in Mathematics and a C minus in English.
TSC CEO Nancy Macharia stated, “Last week, we convened a meeting with all deans of universities offering teaching education to discuss registration requirements. Our aim is to present a unified front to Parliament regarding education sector matters.”
Additionally, TSC has introduced several measures aimed at enhancing professionalism within the teaching profession, including guidelines for teacher deregistration or disciplinary action for various offenses, including misconduct of a sexual nature. The commission also plans to establish and formalize continuous professional development programs for teachers.
As these reforms progress, teachers stand to benefit from upcoming promotions. TSC is poised to promote over 30,000 teachers across various ranks, spanning from chief principals to senior teachers.
Macharia elaborated, “In the previous financial year 2023/2024, we promoted 14,000 teachers, and in the current financial year, we have earmarked Ksh1 billion for promotions. This will address the issue of teacher stagnation effectively.”
Moreover, teachers can expect improved medical services through ongoing enhancements to the teachers’ medical scheme.
While TSC faces criticism from some stakeholders regarding proposed amendments to legislation, the commission maintains that these reforms are in line with constitutional provisions and recommendations from the presidential working party on education reforms.
