The Teachers Service Commission, TSC, has set out stringent guidelines on teachers pursuing further education. Via an effective circular dated 17th April, 2018, the Commission outlined various measures that it had put in place so as to ensure teachers on school based programmes are monitored while on duty. Below are the contents of the Circular by TSC boss Dr Nancy Njeri Macharia;

It has come to the attention of the Commission that teachers pursuing studies under the School based Programme have abdicated their teaching duties and are now spending valuable school time undertaking private studies.

It has further been established that the said teachers undertake their private assignments using institutional materials and/or resources at the expense of their official work.

This behaviour has adversely affected curriculum delivery and compromised quality teaching in most public schools leading to poor performance in academic
programmes and Co-curricular activities amongst learners.

In this regard and pursuant to the provisions of Regulation 17 of the Code of Regulations for Teachers and Clause 11 of the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Teachers, the Commission hereby issues the following Guidelines to be strictly
observed by Teachers who are pursuing studies on school based programme:

(a) Undertaking private studies and/or assignments during school hours is strictly prohibited. The same is contrary to the prevailing regulations and must cease henceforth.

(b) Undertaking private assignments using Institutional materials and resources is strictly prohibited.

(c) Institutional Administrators are directed to compile a comprehensive list and details of teachers undertaking private studies on school based programme and submit to their respective Sub County Directors for monitoring.

(d) Institutional Administrators are directed to report to the Commission the details of Teachers who are in breach of these Guidelines.

The Commission reiterates that while it appreciates that attainment of higher
qualifications is beneficial to the teaching service, the same should not be undertaken at the expense of learners’ education. It is on this basis that the Commission has put in place a Study Leave Policy to ensure that the quest for further education by teachers is granted for those who merit in a structured and
organized manner that does not infringe on the right of learners to access quality basic education.

Teachers are reminded that in line with the Commission’s Circular Number 1 of 2017 issued on February, 2017, curriculum implementation and delivery remains the core function of the Teaching Service and must be accorded due attention over any other activity.

The Commission will take stern disciplinary action on any teacher who violates the provisions of these guidelines.”