Ruto’s Supporters Found Handing Out TSC Teacher Job Letters
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) criticized President William Ruto and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for how they are hiring teachers.
On April 19, KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu asked the President and TSC to be fair in their hiring process. This came after it was discovered that Ruto’s supporters were giving out TSC job letters.
Oyuu expressed concern about how teachers are being recruited and the problems surrounding it.
He pointed out that TSC is an independent body responsible for hiring teachers.
“The Teachers Service Commission has somewhat neglected its duty to hire teachers,” he said.
“This is unprecedented in TSC’s history. TSC needs to focus on its job, which is to recruit teachers.”
Oyuu acknowledged that the President has the power to help hire teachers.
He thanked Ruto for his involvement but insisted that the hiring must be done fairly.
He expressed disappointment with how some politicians are distributing TSC job letters.
“We cannot oppose the President’s authority to hire teachers. We appreciate his help,” he said.
“But the way some politicians are handing out these letters is concerning. Assistance is fine, but it must be fair and respectful.”
He also mentioned that TSC should prioritize hiring teachers who graduated earlier over those who finished recently.
He stressed that age should also be considered in the hiring process.
“It doesn’t make sense to hire a teacher who graduated in 2023 while ignoring one who finished in 2010,” he said.
“As a union, we must be clear that fairness is essential in hiring, especially for teachers over 50 years old who are still looking for jobs.”
This situation follows TSC CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia’s statement to the National Assembly Education Committee that over 178,000 teachers have not moved up in their job levels.
Macharia explained that this is due to a Ksh35 billion budget shortfall, with only Ksh2 billion provided over two years to address the issue.
“Insufficient funding has greatly affected teachers’ career growth. This stagnation has led to complaints from unions, lowered morale, and increased turnover in the profession,” Macharia said.
She also denied claims of favoritism in hiring and promoting teachers.
Macharia stated that TSC uses a digital application system and follows regulations to ensure fair promotion opportunities.
