TSC is advised by KNUT to prioritize P1 teachers in the upcoming hiring process.
In the upcoming hiring drive, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Kipkelion branch, is urging the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to give priority to Primary Teacher 1 teachers.
Branch Secretary David Bore expressed concern that, in spite of their commitment and contribution to the education industry, many skilled P1 teachers have been marginalized for many years.
Bore made a plea to TSC in Kipkelion to take into account the plight of these teachers, who, he said, have been jobless or underemployed for far too long.
“In primary education, particularly in lower classes, P1 teachers are the backbone. When diploma holders are employed for the same positions, it is unfair to overlook them. This disparity must be addressed by the TSC,” he stated.
He stressed that fair recruitment procedures would increase morale and help address the scarcity of instructors in area schools.
He expressed worry about the rising trend of politicians giving out appointment letters to newly hired teachers, claiming that it infringes on TSC’s independence.
“The issue of employment is causing much concern within KNUT. By law, the TSC is an autonomous body. Its job is to recruit teachers for the teaching profession. Bore expressed alarm that the TSC has relinquished this function.
The TSC’s only responsibility is to recruit and place teachers, according to Bore, and political engagement undermines openness and meritocracy.
In addition, the union demanded a fair and transparent hiring procedure that complies with the law and guarantees equity for all eligible instructors, issuing a warning that no sort of impropriety would be tolerated.