Moiben MP Raises Alarm Over Ksh 10.3 Billion Budget Cut for Teachers Service Commission
Moiben MP Prof. Phylis Bartoo has voiced serious concerns regarding the proposed Ksh 10.3 billion budget cut for the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for the 2024/25 financial year. Speaking at a National Assembly Committee on Education meeting, Prof. Bartoo emphasized the potentially dire consequences of these cuts on teacher recruitment, promotions, and crucial teacher welfare programs.
Prof. Bartoo highlighted that the budget slashes for the TSC would not only disrupt ongoing teacher recruitment and promotion processes but also drastically reduce funding for essential teacher benefits. The proposed cuts would see a 50% reduction in provisions for medical cover, group life insurance, and personal accident insurance for teachers, creating a significant Ksh 11.89 billion shortfall.
“This proposed reduction in the TSC budget is alarming,” Prof. Bartoo stated. “The ramifications could be severe, affecting everything from the recruitment of new teachers to the ongoing promotion of existing staff. More critically, the substantial cut in funding for teacher insurance and medical cover threatens the very foundation of the three-year medical scheme that provides crucial support for our educators.”
Prof. Bartoo called on the Treasury to reconsider the budget cuts and ensure that adequate funds are allocated to support the Education sector and the TSC. She warned that failing to address the funding shortfall could severely undermine the effectiveness of critical ministries and compromise the quality of education in the country.
“The proposed budget cuts could cripple the ability of the TSC to fulfill its mandate and, by extension, undermine the entire education system,” Prof. Bartoo asserted. “We urge the Treasury to allocate sufficient funds to ensure that our teachers are supported and that our education system remains robust and effective.”
The MP’s remarks reflect growing concerns among lawmakers and educators alike about the impact of the proposed budget reductions on the future of education in Kenya. As discussions continue, the call for a reconsideration of the budget cuts gains momentum, with many advocating for a balanced approach that supports both the financial sustainability of the TSC and the well-being of the country’s teachers.
Post Author
