Consider P1 teachers as the first choice in upcoming recruitment, KNUT urges TSC
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Kipkelion branch, is requesting that the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) prioritize Primary Teacher 1 teachers in the imminent recruitment process.
Branch Secretary David Bore voiced his worry that numerous qualified P1 teachers have been overlooked for years, regardless of their commitment and service to the education sector.
While speaking in Kipkelion, Bore appealed to TSC to take into account these teachers who, he pointed out, have been unemployed or underemployed for an extended period.
“P1 teachers serve as the foundation of primary education, particularly in lower classes. It is unjust to exclude them while hiring diploma holders for identical roles. TSC must rectify this discrepancy,” he stated.
He stressed that equitable recruitment practices would enhance morale and tackle teacher shortages in local schools. He expressed concerns regarding the rising trend of politicians providing appointment letters to newly recruited teachers, asserting that it undermines TSC’s autonomy.
“The matter of employment is raising significant concern within KNUT. The TSC is an independent commission as established by law. It holds the responsibility to recruit teachers for the teaching service. It is troubling that the TSC has relinquished this duty,” lamented Bore.
Bore reiterated that the TSC’s primary responsibility is the employment and assignment of teachers, and political interference jeopardizes transparency and merit-based selection.
The union additionally urged for a clear, professional recruitment process that adheres to the law and guarantees fairness for all qualified teachers, cautioning that any type of irregularity will be rejected.
