KNUT urges TSC to demonstrate fairness and consideration during Teachers’ recruitment

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to demonstrate fairness and consideration in the recruitment process of teachers within the country. This call comes in the wake of discontent regarding the recent promotion of 25,252 teachers.

During a press conference held on Saturday, April 19, the KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu stated that the commission ought to prioritize the recruitment of teachers who completed their college education earlier than more recent graduates.

“The commission must maintain fairness and humanity. The practice of selecting a teacher who graduated from teachers college in 2023 while neglecting those who completed their education in 2010 raises more questions than it answers,” he articulated.

“Furthermore, as a union, we must emphasize that fairness is essential in employment, as we have teachers who are over 50 years old; what options do they have? Since they are still available, they must be employed,” he asserted.

The Secretary General additionally remarked that the political class should respect the independence of the commission, which he highlighted has fallen short in fulfilling its mandate, and should refrain from interfering with the recruitment of teachers within the country. This appeal follows disclosures that the State House has been involved in influencing the promotion and recruitment of teachers, contrary to the laws that assign TSC the exclusive authority for hiring and managing teachers.

“The Teachers Service Commission, to a certain extent, has abdicated its responsibility and co-function of employing teachers,” he noted.

“We cannot contest the executive powers of the president of this country to employ teachers; however, the manner in which these forms are disseminated by certain politicians raises questions. Yes, assistance is welcome, but it must be equitable,” he stated.

Oyuu’s comments emerged shortly after the union also demanded the prompt release of the Ksh64 billion accumulated capitation funds to assist the already struggling education sector.

KNUT emphasized that the delay in these funds has significantly hindered institutional heads from efficiently running and managing schools.

Speaking on Monday, March 3, Oyuu remarked that the delay is the primary reason some heads of institutions are choosing to send students home even before the official closing dates.

“Why must capitation be delayed? How do you expect heads of institutions to manage schools effectively? It is impracticable to use personal funds to operate schools. When we hear reports of heads of institutions and principals sending learners home early or temporarily, we understand the underlying reasons,” he commented.

“It is perilous to retain learners in schools without capitation. For those heads who are prudent enough to avoid strikes in schools, I believe they are exerting considerable effort,” he concluded.