Education CS Ogamba warns Schools against contravening TSC regulations on Co-curricular activities

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has warned teachers to comply with the regulations governing co-curricular activities, highlighting the importance of following the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education and the Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC).

During his address at the National Drama and Film Festival Gala in Nakuru on Tuesday, Ogamba emphasized that all co-curricular activities must adhere to established protocols.

He also refuted rumors regarding disciplinary measures against teachers associated with the controversial Butere Girls High School play, “Echoes of War,” stating that investigations are still ongoing and no one has faced penalties thus far.

The CS announced that, in the future, Arts and Sports will no longer be classified as co-curricular activities but will be fully incorporated into the school curriculum as formal educational pathways.

He mentioned that schools will be required to construct theaters as part of infrastructure development to support the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), particularly at the senior secondary level.

The 2025 drama and film festivals saw participation from over 27,000 students and featured more than 800 presentations, underscoring the increasing significance of creative arts in education.

Key points from TSC Circular Number 14/2018 regarding the Protection of Pupils/Students include:

1. EXCLUSION OF NON-REGISTERED INDIVIDUALS:

All principals and headteachers must not allow persons who are not registered teachers to participate in any school programmes involving learners.

2. PROHIBITION OF DEREGISTERED TEACHERS:

Teachers whose names have been removed from the register of teachers must also be excluded from handling or interacting with students.

3. RESTRICTION IN CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

This directive applies especially during co-curricular activities, such as games, drama, and music festivals, where only registered teachers are permitted to coach, manage, or supervise learners.

4. DUTIES INVOLVING LEARNERS:

The prohibited roles include teaching, handling, managing, coaching, and supervising pupils/students.

5. LEGAL AND ETHICAL COMPLIANCE:

The circular reinforces compliance with the TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics, safeguarding learners from unauthorized persons.

The purpose of this circular is to protect learners by ensuring only QUALIFIED AND PROFESSIONALLY accountable individuals engage with them in all educational settings.