TSC Receives Over 314,000 Applications for Teacher Posts Amid Staffing Shortages
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) announced on Wednesday that it received a staggering 314,117 applications for 46,000 teacher positions advertised between October 1 and 8. This overwhelming response highlights the pressing demand for qualified educators across the country.
TSC CEO Nancy Macharia shared these figures during a session with the Parliamentary Education Committee, noting that the applications include 93,646 for primary teaching positions, surpassing the 6,000 roles available. For junior secondary school (JSS) teachers, there were 144,177 applicants vying for 39,550 positions, while secondary school vacancies attracted 76,294 applications for just 450 posts.
Patrick Karinga Munuhe, National Chairman of the Kenya National Union of Teachers, welcomed the TSC’s efforts to address the critical teacher-student ratio, which he described as a significant factor affecting the quality of education in Kenya. According to the Basic Education Statistical Booklet 2020, the ideal teacher-student ratio is set at 1:25 for pre-primary schools, 1:40 for primary schools, and 1:35 for secondary schools. However, some regions are facing ratios as high as 1:70, which undermines educational outcomes.
Munuhe emphasized the importance of the government’s commitment to increasing teacher employment as a necessary step toward improving the education system. He reiterated that while the application numbers are promising, the need for more teachers remains urgent.
In addition to staffing issues, Kenyan teachers are awaiting the start of negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which has been long overdue. This delay in discussions has left many educators anxious about their salaries and working conditions.
As the TSC processes these applications, the education sector looks on with hope that the incoming teachers will help alleviate the current staffing challenges and enhance the learning environment for students across Kenya.
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