New teacher recruits can start rejoicing starting this July. For those of you who were recruited and posted to schools back in May will be receiving your very first salary this July. It’s time to do a little happy dance!
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is all set to place you on the payroll and make sure that your hard work is rewarded. Now, here’s the deal – the timing and amount of your payment may vary depending on when you reported to your assigned school and when the online casualty report was submitted. So, keep an eye out for that sweet paycheck coming your way!
But wait, there’s more! The TSC has some big plans in the pipeline. They’re looking to recruit an additional 20,000 teachers on contract in the upcoming financial year, starting in July. It’s all part of their mission to strengthen the numbers in our junior secondary schools (JSS). However, let’s be real here, it still won’t be enough to meet the demand. We need even more amazing teachers like you!
Now, I know what you’re thinking – what about the budget? Well, TSC boss Mrs. Macharia has made it clear that they’re facing some financial constraints. They simply don’t have enough funds to recruit as many teachers as they’d like. But hey, if the budget gets a boost, they’ll be able to bring in more teachers and address the shortage. So, let’s hope for some good news on that front!
During a recent Senate committee meeting, some lawmakers suggested hiring teachers on contract to overcome the challenges. Mrs. Macharia explained that while she understands the need, there are legal limitations to consider. However, she did mention that the current intern teachers will transition into permanent and pensionable terms by 2025. So, there’s hope on the horizon!
Senator Jackson Mandago of Uasin Gishu made a great point about amending the Employment Act to allow for contractual hiring with clear terms of payment and length of service. After all, we shouldn’t let unions hold us hostage when there are eager students waiting to be taught and Kenyans in need of jobs. It’s all about finding the right balance!
Tharaka Nithi Senator Mahvenda Gataya added that the proposal to hire on contract should be brought before the Cabinet for approval. This way, teachers who serve a specified time can be absorbed on permanent terms every year. Sounds like a plan!
In the meantime, let’s acknowledge that there’s still a shortage of teachers in our primary and secondary schools. Even with the recruitment of 36,000 teachers earlier this year, we’re in need of 47,329 primary school teachers and a whopping 64,541 teachers for our secondary schools. It’s quite a task, and the commission estimates that an annual budget of Shl4.8 billion is necessary for recruitment.
Oh, and one more thing! For those of you who joined as interns in February, I know the wait for permanent and pensionable jobs can feel like forever. But fear not, my friends. Mrs. Macharia revealed that you’ll be getting those coveted positions in January 2025. Hang in there, and keep up the great work!