TSC Defends Employment Procedures Amid Nationwide JSS Teachers' Strike

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has rebuffed allegations of corruption and political interference in the employment process, amidst a nationwide strike staged by Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers.

Tharaka Nithi County TSC Director, Mohamed Gabow, addressed the concerns of protesting JSS teachers at the TSC offices in Chuka town. He emphasized the Commission’s adherence to a structured merit-based employment system, asserting that vacancies are filled in accordance with the law.

“We maintain a transparent merit list. When a vacancy arises, we refer to this list and select the next candidate accordingly,” stated Gabow.

Assuring the striking teachers that their demands would be forwarded through the appropriate channels, Gabow affirmed the commitment to follow established procedures outlined by law.

The JSS National Chairperson, Edwin Osoro, expressed readiness for negotiations to devise a return-to-work agreement. Osoro highlighted the teachers’ plea for over 46,000 teachers to be transitioned into permanent roles and compensated for their internship periods.

The teachers allege that political figures and ministry officials have interfered with the TSC’s mandate by distributing employment letters at public events. They argue that if resources are available for such appointments, there should be funds to confirm and compensate interns.

Linda Nkatha, a JSS teacher, questioned the adequacy of the Sh17,000 salary award, citing the high cost of living. She advocated for compensation for the duration served as interns.

The JSS teachers, who have been interns for two years, vowed to continue their strike until their demand for permanent and pensionable employment is met. Their leadership advised against reporting to schools as interns, citing a court ruling deeming the internship program unlawful.

In a recent court judgment, Justice Bryrum Ongaya of the Employment and Labour Relations Court ruled in favor of the intern teachers, affirming their right to fair labor practices and urging the TSC to address staffing needs in public schools.