TSC latest promotions list opposed, as letters trickle in

Teachers in Mandera County have voiced strong opposition to the recent promotion list released by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), citing issues of transparency, regional equity, and a lack of recognition for long-serving educators in challenging areas.

The promotions have ignited intense discussions among education stakeholders in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties, leaving many teachers in Mandera feeling overlooked and disheartened.

Hussein Hassan, the Mandera County Executive Secretary for the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), noted that the promotions have caused unnecessary confusion among local educators.

“The recent promotions have led to confusion and disappointment. It seems the process was influenced by the Education Parliamentary Committee, which may not fully grasp the unique challenges faced by teachers in Mandera,” Hassan stated.

Out of 388 teachers from Mandera who applied for promotion, only 197 were successful, leaving 191 qualified and experienced teachers excluded from the list, which has fueled frustration and dissatisfaction throughout the county.

KNUT has raised concerns about the potential negative effects this decision could have on teacher morale and the continuity of education in the area.

Similarly, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Mandera is calling for the immediate inclusion of the remaining teachers in the promotion list and is urging the TSC to reassess the criteria used.

Both unions are now demanding that affirmative action be taken to support teachers working in difficult conditions, in accordance with Article 56 of the Constitution and the principles of equity and non-discrimination.

“We urge the TSC to engage all stakeholders in decisions that significantly impact the welfare and morale of teachers in ASAL regions,” a KUPPET official added.

The Teachers Service Commission recently announced the promotion of 25,252 teachers nationwide. However, the concerns raised in Mandera underscore the ongoing need for fair and region-sensitive education policies.

Meanwhile, the promoted teachers are expected to begin receiving their letters this week.