Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has moved to amend the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act, 2012 to make the commission more representative of all education stakeholders.
Proposed Amendments to TSC Act
In a statement shared on his official social media accounts on Monday, February 24, 2025, Barasa said he is seeking to repeal and amend the TSC Act. His proposed changes will introduce teacher representation in the commission, similar to structures in other public bodies like JSC and PSC.
The UDA MP also wants to optimize resource allocation by having the commission shift from full-time to part-time.
“Having a dedicated Secretariat and a fully engaged Commission is not sustainable. A streamlined approach is necessary for good governance,” Barasa said.
Key Proposals for Representation
In a letter dated February 24, 2025 to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Barasa wants to have representatives from various education levels to ensure balanced decision making in TSC.
His proposals are:
- Primary school teachers should be allowed to nominate one representative to the commission.
- Secondary school teachers should be able to elect a representative to join the commission.
- Post-secondary institutions should be able to nominate a commissioner to represent their interests in policy making.
Filling a Longstanding Gap
Barasa says primary, secondary and post-secondary educators play a big role in shaping Kenya’s education system but have no direct representation in TSC decision making. He believes these amendments will give educators a stronger voice in teacher policies and management.
“These amendments will strengthen the Commission by ensuring all key players in the education sector have a voice in teacher policies and management. The aim is to have a more representative, dynamic and effective TSC that reflects the needs of those it serves,” he wrote to Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Implications of the Amendments
If passed, these amendments will bring about:
- More inclusive decision making that takes into account teachers from different education levels.
- Efficient use of resources by having the commission shift from full-time to part-time.
- Teacher policies guided by education sector representatives.
What’s Next
Barasa has asked for parliamentary consideration of his proposal for debate and possible legislation. The proposal will be debated in the National Assembly before any changes can be made.
As the education sector changes, these amendments will shape how teacher policies are made and implemented in Kenya.