The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has conducted a mass transfer of Sub-County Directors (SCD) across the country in an effort to boost service delivery.
In the changes effected towards the end of this week, Catherine Mathenge who was the Naivasha SCD now moves to Kitui West in similar capacity. She will replace Elizabeth Nyambura Njihia who has been posted to Kandara in Murang’a County.
Ms Njihia will be replacing Paul Bii who now goes to Naivasha to take over from Ms. Mathenge.
In Kitui County, Kipkogei Kutol who was the Mwingi East SCD goes to the TSC headquarters with his place being taken over by Nicholas Kitai from Voi Sub-County in Taita Taveta County.
Also in the same County, Lucy Macharia, the Migwani SCD transfers to Kiambaa Sub-County in Kiambu County. Her place will be taken over by Lawrence Kariuki who was the SCD for Tetu in Nyeri County.
On the other hand, Catherine Waithera Nairoshi who has been the Kikuyu SCD in Kiambu County shifts camp to Nyeri County probably Tetu to replace Kariuki.
Erick Ochieng Magack who has been the Seme SCD shifts base to Kuria West in Migori County. He will replace his counterpart, Benard Rotich who has been transferred to Kesses Sub-County in Uasin Gishu County. Rotich will be taking over from Joseph Kiptisia who has been transferred to Marigat Sub-County in Baringo County.
In the neighboring Kapsaret Sub-County, Wilson Ng’olekamar has been transferred to Butere Sub-County in Kakamega perhaps to replace William Masai Kipchomus who now heads to remote Teso North in the bordering Busia County.
Also in the mix is Sammy Rutto who now packs his bags from Rongai Sub- County to go and take charge of Bureti Sub-County in Kericho County. Rutto will be replaced by Peter Kangwana who has been the Embakasi/ Njiru SCD in Nairobi County.
Anne Wamugunda, Dagoretti SCD in Nairobi has been parachuted to Kakamega County to take charge of Mumias East Sub-County. She will be replacing Benard Odoyo Wagunda who now relocates to Pokot North in West Pokot County.
Odoyo on the other hand will be replacing Dennis Nyaanga who now moves to some sub-county in Kitui County.
Betty Soi who has been the Kabete SCD in Kiambu County will now report to a new station in neighbouring Murang’a County. Education News was unable to get the name of her replacement at the time of filing this story. Similarly, Emmy Kiget who has been operating as the Deputy Director at the Nairobi County Regional office has been deployed as the Lang’ata/ Kibera Sub-County Director.
Also affected by the changes is Susyline Kimathi the Westlands Sub-County Director. She will now report to a Sub-County in Machakos County. Her immediate replacement was not yet clear at the time of going to press. It is a similar case for Jane Muturi who was the Makadara/Kamukunji SCD. She has been transferred to Lari Sub-County in neighbouring Kiambu County.
In the same Nairobi County, Jackson Mutai who has been in charge of Kasarani Sub-County takes additional responsibilities and will take over Mathare and Starehe Sub-Counties. There were unconfirmed reports that he will be promoted as either the Deputy Director at the Nairobi regional office or will deputize the Nairobi County Director.
In Nandi County, Henry Nyabuto moves from Tinderet to Soy Sub-County in Uasin Gishu County. He will be replaced by Bremin Rotich from Kimilili Sub-County in Bungoma County.
In Bungoma, long-serving Jane Achieng Nyang’iye will be leaving Mt. Elgon Sub-County where she had made her home to Nyando Sub-County in Kisumu County. She will be replaced by Jotham Ndunde Korofia who has been in charge of Nyakach Sub-County in Kisumu County. On the other hand, Nyang’iye will take over from Nelson Ngare in Nyando.
Ngare now reports to Bumula in Bungoma County. There were reports however that his transfer was receiving opposition from local leaders in the region and could be moved to some friendlier destination.
In Migori, David Muruka will now move as the Awendo SCD to take charge of Ndhiwa in neighboring Homa Bay County. He will be replaced by John Chepkwony who has been the Kisumu East SCD.
More changes of SCDs are expected in due course and Kenya updates will duly keep you posted as and when it gets more information.
Fundamental rights and freedoms. Nepotism or favouritism.
Duty to protect children.
Integrity.
Conduct of duties.
Profesionalism.
Conflict of interest.
Confidentiality.
Care of public property
Political activity.
Improper enrichment.
Donations.
Proffesional advice.
Misleading information.
Evaluation of learners.
Sexual relations with learners.
PART III
ANNEX
THE PUBLIC OFFICER ETHICS ACT, 2003 (No. 4 of 2003)
IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by section 5(1) of the Public Officer Ethics Act, 2003, The Teachers Service Commission establishes the following Teachers Service Commission Code of Conduct and Ethics:
THE TEACHERS SERVICE COMMISSION CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS
Preamble
The Education System of the Republic of Kenya is charged with the responsibility of nurturing the growth of the whole person through integrated development of physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual attributes and abilities.
The teacher is a key person in imparting knowledge, skills and attitudes that are necessary for the development of the country. The Teaching Service is a noble calling which demands sacrifice and selflessness.
The code is intended to establish standards of ethical conduct and behaviour for teachers and officers employed by the Teachers Service Commission. It seeks to create awareness on shared values and principles that should govern attitude and behaviour.
The code also seeks to guide members of staff on how to handle conflict of interest and personal conduct including interpersonal relations at the workplace.
This code contains rules of conduct and ethics to be observed so as to maintain the integrity, dignity and nobility of the teaching profession. The Code does not in any way replace the Code of Regulations for Teachers or the laws and rules relating to the officers and employees of the Teachers Service Commission. Those laws and rules and all other applicable laws must be obeyed.
Employees of the Teachers Service Commission should adhere to this Code so as not to bring ridicule and dishonour to the Commission and the teaching profession. This is in line with its Vision: “To be an Institution of Excellence in the Provision of Efficient Service for Quality Teaching”
logo for tsc
PART I
PRELIMINARY
1. Citation
This Code may be cited as the Teachers Service Commission Code of Conduct and Ethics.
Definitions and Interpretations
In this Code, unless the context otherwise requires: –
“Act” means the Public Officers Ethics Act, 2003.
“Collection”, “collector” and “promoter” have the same meanings as in section 2 of the Public Collections Act, Cap. 106.
“Confidential Information” means that information acquired in connection with the Public Officer’s duties and that which is not public.
“Conflict of Interest” means instances when a Public Officer’s personal interest conflicts with his official duties.
“Day” means a calendar day and “year” means 365 days.
“Harambee Money” means money raised by way of fundraising.
“Pornography” refers to the explicit depiction of sexual subject matter with the sole intention of sexually exciting the viewer.
“Public Officer” means a public officer to whom this Code applies under Rule 3.
“School” includes pre-primary, primary, secondary and tertiary institutions;
“Sexual activity” includes but is not limited to: flirtation, sodomy, carnal knowledge, penile knowledge, homosexualism, lesbianism, defilement, indecent touching, rape.
“Sexually harass” includes doing any of the following;
making a request or exerting pressure for sexual activity or favours;
making intentional or inappropriate physical contact that is sexual in nature; and
Making gestures, noises, jokes or comments, including innuendoes, regarding another person’s sexuality if the person doing it knows or ought to know that it is unwelcome;
if the person doing it knows or ought to know that it is unwelcome.
“Student” includes students at pre-primary, primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.
“The appropriate authority” referred to in Rule 25 shall mean the Secretary of the Teachers Service Commission.
“The Commission” means the Teachers Service Commission.
“Vacancies” refers to available posts for transfer, recruitment and promotion.
Words indicating gender include all genders.
Words indicating the singular also include the plural and words indicating the plural include the singular.
3. Application of Code
This Code applies with respect to: –
public officers who are teachers registered under the Teachers Service Commission Act; and
Employees of the Teachers Service Commission
For greater certainty, the employees referred to in paragraph (1) (b) do not include the Commissioners of the Teachers Service
PART II REQUIREMENTS
Compliance with General Code
A public officer shall comply with all the requirements of the General Code of Conduct and Ethics set out in Part III of the
The General Code of Conduct and Ethics set out in part III of the Act is set out in the Appendix to this Code and shall form part of this
Fundamental Rights and Freedoms
In carrying out his duties, a public officer shall respect, protect and promote the fundamental rights, and freedoms of persons without discrimination on the basis of race, tribe, political opinions, colour, creed, sex, disability, social status or
A public officer shall not be a member of an organization that he knows promotes or practices discrimination on a basis set out in paragraph (1).
6. Professionalism
A public officer who is in a profession shall maintain his professional competence and ethics.
A public officer shall not conduct himself in a manner likely to suggest that he can be improperly
7. Conduct of duties
A public officer shall in conducting his duties be efficient and punctual and shall meet his
A public officer shall ensure that his official duties take precedence over his other
A public officer shall be patient, dignified and courteous to students, colleagues and members of the
8. Evaluation of students
A public officer who evaluates students shall do so honestly and only on the basis of their
A public officer shall use his best efforts to ensure that examinations are conducted in the proper manner and without
9. Sexual relations with students
A public officer shall not engage in any sexual activity with a student regardless of whether the student
A public officer shall not make a request to, or exert pressure on, a student for sexual activity or
10. Pornography
A public officer shall not supply pornography to a student, expose a student to pornography, sexual toys or assist a student in obtaining access to the
A public officer shall use his best efforts to ensure that any school or
office he works in is free of pornography and sexual toys.
11. Illicit drugs
A public officer shall not supply illicit drugs, cigarettes or alcohol to a student, expose a student to illicit drugs cigarettes and alcohol or assist a student in obtaining access to the
A public officer shall use his best efforts to ensure that any school or
office he works in is free of illicit drugs, cigarettes and alcohol.
A public officer shall not report to work while under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol or consume the same while on
Political Activities
A public officer shall not stand for election as a member of the National Assembly or a local authority or hold a political office.
13. Canvassing for favours in service
A public officer shall not canvass or lobby, either directly or indirectly, for any favours in the Teaching Service or, if the public officer is an officer or employee of the Teachers Service Commission, for any favours relating to his employment with the Commission.
14. Private affairs – outside activities
While a public officer should not be isolated from the society of which he is a part, he shall ensure that his non-official activities do not
interfere with his official duties or affect the dignity of his office and that the risk of conflict with his official duties is minimized.
A public officer shall not engage in private business during official working
15. Private teaching work
A public officer shall not –
charge or accept any fee for tuition of a student, even if the tuition is given outside official working hours;
or
Establish or retain an interest in a private school or work at such a
Paragraph (1)(a) does not apply with respect to tuition fees that are lawfully charged by a
16. Endorsing private activities
A public officer shall not use or lend the prestige of his office to sanction or endorse his own private activities or the private activities of any other person.
17. Private affairs – financial dealings
18. Dealing with donations
A public officer shall, to the extent that he is involved in the receipt and administration of donations for school or office purposes, ensure that proper records are kept of the donations and that they are used for the purposes for which they were
A public officer shall inform the Secretary of the Teachers Service Commission or another appropriate authority if the public officer has reasonable grounds for believing –
that proper records of any donations for school or office purposes have not been kept, or have not been kept properly; or
that any donations for school or office purposes have not been used for the purposes for which they were
19. Gifts
If a public officer is given a gift described in paragraph (2), then, even if the gift is not deemed, under section 11(3) of the General Code of Conduct and Ethics set out in the Appendix to this Code, to be a gift to the public officer’s organization –
the public officer shall report the matter to the Secretary of the Teachers Service Commission who shall direct the appropriate mode of disposal of the gift; and
the public officer shall comply with such
The gifts referred in paragraph (1) are –
a gift from a person described in subparagraph (i), (ii) or
(iii) of section 11(2)(a) of the General Code of Conduct and Ethics set out in the Appendix to this Code; or
a gift given to the public officer on a public or ceremonial
20. Reporting of charges against a public officer.
A public officer who is charged with an offence described in paragraph (3) shall forthwith report the matter to the Secretary of the Teachers Service Commission or cause the matter to be reported to the secretary of the Teachers Service Commission.
A public officer who discovers that a public officer under his supervision has been charged with an offence described in paragraph (3) shall either ensure that the matter is reported
An offence referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) is an offence that is punishable by imprisonment without an option of a
21. Declaration of vacancies
A public officer shall not knowingly and deliberately withhold information on available vacancies in the teaching service and Teachers Service Commission.
22. Breach of Code – reporting
A public officer shall inform the Secretary of the Teachers Service Commission or another appropriate authority if the public officer knows that another public officer has breached this Code unless the public officer reasonably believes that the breach has been or will be
Information received by the Secretary of Teachers Service Commission from a public officer in respect of paragraph
above shall be treated with strict confidentiality with a view to protecting the
23. Breach of Code – action to be taken
Where a public officer has committed a breach of this Code, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the Act and other applicable
Where a public officer is called upon to exercise discretion, he shall do so having regard to professionalism, stipulated regulations and the rule of law
24. Investigations
The Commission shall investigate or cause to be investigated any allegation of breach of the Code of Conduct and Ethics by a Public Officer so as to determine the veracity of the
An investigation may be made on the Commission’s own initiative or pursuant to a complaint by any
The Commission may refer a matter to another appropriate body for investigation and that body shall investigate the matter within a reasonable time and submit a report to the Commission on its
An investigation may be conducted notwithstanding the fact that the individual being investigated has ceased to be a Public
APPENDIX (Rule 4 (2) PART III
GENERAL CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS
Short Title
This part sets out the General Code of Conduct and Ethics.
8. Performance of duties
A public officer shall, to the best of his ability, carry out his duties and provide his services efficiently and honestly.
9. Professionalism
A public officer shall –
carry out his duties in a way that upholds public confidence in the integrity of his office;
treat the public and his fellow public officers with courtesy and respect;
to the extent appropriate to his office, seek to improve the standards of performance and level of professionalism in his organization;
if a member of a professional body, observe the ethical and professional standards of that body;
observe official working hours and not be absent without proper authorization or reasonable cause;
Dress appropriately and observe personal
Discharge any professional responsibilities in a professional
10. Rule of law
A public officer shall carry out his duties in accordance with the
(In carrying out his duties, a public officer shall not violate the rights and freedoms of any person under Part V of the
11. No improper enrichment
A public officer shall not use his office to improperly enrich himself or
Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), a public officer shall not: –
except as allowed under subsection (3) or (4), accept or request gifts or favours from a person who –
has an interest that may affect the carrying out of the public officer’s duties;
regulates activities with respect to which the public officer’s organization has a role; or
has a contractual relationship with the public officer’s organization;
improperly use his office to acquire land or other property for himself or another person, whether or not the land or property
for the personal benefit of himself or another, use or allow the use of confidential
The Public Officer may accept a gift to him in his official capacity but, unless the gift is a non-monet
(SPECIFY THE APPLICABLE REGULATIONS)
Subsection (2)(a) does not prevent a public officer from accepting a gift from a relative or friend given on a special occasion recognized by
Subsection (2)(c) does not apply to the use of information for educational or literary purposes, research purposes or other similar
12. Conflict of interest
A public officer shall use his best efforts to avoid being in a position in which his personal interests conflict with his official
Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), a public officer shall not hold shares or have any other interest in a corporation, partnership of other body, directly or through another person, if
holding those shares or having that interest would result in conflict of interest.
A public officer whose personal interests conflict with his official duties shall
Declare the personal interests to his superior or other appropriate body and comply with any directions to avoid the conflict; and
Refrain from participating in any deliberations with respect to the
Not withstanding any directions to the contrary under subsection(3)(a) a public officer shall not award a contract, or influence the award of a contract, to-
himself;
a spouse;
a business associate; or
a corporation, partnership or other body in which the officer has an
The regulations may govern when the personal interests of a public officer conflict with his official duties for the purposes of this section. (SPECIFY THE APPLICABLE REGULATIONS)
In this section, “personal interest” includes the interest of a spouse, a close relation or business
Collections
A public officer shall not –
use his office or place of work as a venue for soliciting or collecting harambee money; or
either as a collector or promoter of a public collection, obtain money or other property from a person by using his official position in any way to exert
14. Acting for foreigners
No public officer shall, in a manner that may be detrimental to the security interests of Kenya, be an agent for, or further the interests of, a foreign government, organization or
For the purpose of this section –
an individual is foreign if the individual is not a citizen of Kenya;
an organization is foreign if it is established outside Kenya or it is owned or controlled by foreign governments, organizations or
15. Care of property
A public officer shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that property that is entrusted to his care is adequately protected and not misused or
A person who contravenes subsection (1) shall be personally liable for losses resulting from the
16. Political neutrality
A public officer shall not, in connection with the performance of his duties as such: –
act as an agent for, or so as to further the interest of, a political party; or
Indicate support for or opposition to any political party or candidate in an
A public officer shall not engage in political activity that may compromise or be seen to compromise the political neutrality of his
This section does not apply to a member of the National Assembly or a councillor of a local
17. Nepotism
A public officer shall not practice nepotism or favouritism.
18. Giving of advice
A public officer who has a duty to give professional advice shall give honest and impartial professional advice without fear or favour.
25. Misleading the public
A public officer shall not knowingly or willfully give false or misleading information to members of the public or to any other public officer.
26. Conduct of private affairs
A public officer shall conduct his private affairs in a way that maintains public confidence in the integrity of his
A Public Officer shall not evade
A Public Officer shall not neglect his financial obligations or neglect to settle
21. Sexual harassment
(1) A public officer shall not sexually harass a member of the public or a fellow public officer.
22. Selection, of public officers
A public Officer shall ensure that new Public Officers are selected on the basis of integrity, competence and suitability and in the case of an election; are elected in fair election.
23. Submitting of declarations
A public officer shall submit any declaration or clarification required under Part IV of the Public Officer Ethics Act, 2003, to be submitted or made by him.
24. Acting through others
A public officer contravenes the Code of Conduct and Ethics if –
he causes anything to be done through another person that would otherwise be a contravention of the code
or
he allows or directs a person under his supervision or control to do anything that amounts to contravention of the Code of Conduct and
Subsection (1) (b) does not apply to acts done without the public officer’s knowledge or consent if the public officer took reasonable steps to prevent
25. Reporting improper orders
If a public officer considers that anything required of him is a contravention of the Code of Conduct and Ethics or is otherwise improper or unethical, he shall report the matter to an appropriate authority.
According to research, toilet paper may release PFAS, or possibly toxic chemicals, into wastewater systems.
In addition to cosmetics and cleansers, PFAS are also present in paper products.
They claim that a variety of health problems, including cancer, infertility, and liver disease, may be caused by the substances.
The presence of potentially dangerous compounds known as PFAS in groundwater has been linked to the use of toilet paper.
Several consumer goods, such as cosmetics, cleansers, and firefighting foams, include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS Trusted Source).
PFAS are suspected of contributing to a number of illnesses, including cancer, lowered immunity, and issues with development and reproduction, even if the data is not clear.
The health of people who consume PFAS-containing water is in danger.
Healthline was informed by Dr. Katie Pelch, a scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Food in the diet is another potential source of PFAS exposure because groundwater can be utilized for agricultural purposes and it has been demonstrated that plants, including crops, can take up PFAS.
What was discovered in a PFAS study on toilet paper
The most frequently found PFAS in sewage sludge samples, while at low levels, was one specific molecule, termed 6:2 diPAP, according to University of Florida researchers who were examining the occurrence of PFAS in wastewater.
It was also discovered to be the most prevalent PFAS in samples of toilet paper purchased in Africa, western Europe, North America, and South America.
Today, they published their research in the online journal of the American Chemical Society.
According to their analysis, the contribution of toilet paper to the 6:2 diPAP in sewage in the United States and Canada, as well as in Sweden and up to 89% in France, was estimated to be around 4%.
Jake Thompson, a senior research author and doctoral student at the University of Florida, said that while it isn’t the entire issue, it is undoubtedly a component of it.
Data “indicate that there are geographical disparities in contamination,” he said, adding that.
The study found that certain paper producers add PFAS when turning wood into pulp. There is a chance that PFAS-containing goods’ fibers will end up in recycled toilet paper.
Timothy Townsend, PhD, a professor of the University of Florida’s Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences and a principal author of the study, told Healthline, “We believe it comes from the pulping process and is put on instruments to keep paper from sticking.
According to Pelch, PFAS found in toilet paper at parts per billion levels are most likely pollutants from the production or packaging process.
According to researchers, the comparatively low concentration of 6:2 diPAP in wastewater collected in the United States and the fact that Americans use more toilet paper per person than individuals in other countries could be contributing factors.
Smile For Police, Prisons, NYS Officers over 40% Pay rise
Smile For Police, Prisons, NYS Officers over 40% Pay rise. The government is set to increase the salaries for the National Police Service (NPS), National Youth Service (NYS), and Kenya Prisons Service officers by 40 per cent over the next three years.
President William Ruto made the announcement on Thursday after receiving the recommendations of the taskforce on police reforms chaired by former Chief Justice David Maraga at State House in Nairobi.
The President agreed with the recommendation made by the Maraga team saying the move would be vital in restoring integrity, efficiency and accountability in the security forces.
“I have seen the recommendation made by the taskforce to enhance salaries of our police, NYS and prison service by 40% over the next three years,” he said.
Smile For Police, Prisons, NYS Officers over 40% Pay rise
“I think it is a well-considered recommendation and we will now await the work from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission to make the necessary adjustment so that we can implement the recommendation.”
He added: “Our primary objective is to secure the transformation of this nation by instituting a professional, efficient, effective security sector which is defined by integrity and accountability.”
The Head of State highlighted issues raised by the taskforce among them corruption and underfunding surrounding the welfare of security personnel, saying his administration would also review the living conditions, housing, and insurance to transform the sector.
“The taskforce has diagnosed four primary problems in our services that have hampered effective and efficient service delivery, rendered them resistant to growth and transformation and collapsed their stature in the eyes of Kenyans. The problems are, broadly, underfunding, deficient leadership, structural and organisational weaknesses and, most critically of all, corruption,” he noted.
“I am directing the relevant organs of government to commence implementation of reviewing the pay, living conditions, medical cover, housing and other aspects of welfare for members of the services and simply do the right thing by our officers.”
Smile For Police, Prisons, NYS Officers over 40% Pay rise
Similarly, Ruto pledged to ensure the reconstitution of the three security bodies for better alignment in terms of legislation and policies.
Other key reforms by the State include the institutionalisation of long-term equipment modernisation, automation of human resource and finance management procedures revolving around recruitment, transfer promotions and payments of salaries and allowances.
The President also pledged to ensure no officer serves for more than three years in the same county, adding that promotion and recruitment of members of the police services will be made transparent.
The Royal Visit: King Charles III, Queen Camilla arrive in Kenya
King Charles III, Queen Camilla arrive in Kenya. The King and the Queen landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Monday evening and were received by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and British High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan.
They are expected at State House this morning for a formal ceremonial welcome ahead of talks with President William Ruto.
This will be the first official visit by the King Charles and Queen Camilla to a commonwealth nation since their coronation in May 2023.
The visit is aimed at celebrating the warm relationship between the two countries and the strong and dynamic partnership they continue to forge.
The King and Queen will visit Nairobi City County, Mombasa County and surrounding areas.
Their Majesties’ programme will reflect the ways in which Kenya and the United Kingdom are working together, notably to boost mutual prosperity, tackle climate change, promote youth opportunity and employment, advance sustainable development and create a more stable and secure region.
King Charles III, Queen Camilla
During their visit, the King and Queen will meet President Ruto and the First Lady Rachel Ruto as well as and other members of the Kenyan Government, UN staff, CEOs, faith leaders, young people, future leaders and Kenyan Marines training with UK Royal Marines.
The King will also attend an event to celebrate the life and work of the Nobel Laureate the late Professor Wangari Maathai, together with Wangari’s daughter, Wanjira Mathai.
The King and Queen will also visit Nairobi National Park to witness the vital conservation work being undertaken by the Kenya Wildlife Service, which is integral to Kenya’s thriving tourism industry.
Her Majesty, Patron of the equine welfare charity Brooke, will hear how the charity is working with the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals to rescue donkeys at risk and promote their welfare.
The Queen will meet survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, learning how they are supported and sharing her own insights from working in this area.
Revised TSC House Allowance Structure for Teachers of All Clusters
Revised TSC House Allowance Structure for Teachers of All Clusters. Kenya’s education sector has long faced various challenges and one of the key issues for teachers is tuition fees.
To eliminate long-standing housing allowance disparities, the Faculty Board recently introduced a revised housing allowance structure that divides neighborhoods into clusters.
Teacher Update Details New Family Allowance Structure and the impact on the school’s teachers. world, nation.
New Housing Allowance Structure New Housing Allowance Structure divides areas into her four clusters.
These clusters are based on the geographic location of the school and are intended to provide teachers with a housing allowance equivalent to the cost of living in the area.
Cluster 1: Nairobi City This cluster includes the capital Nairobi, known for its relatively high cost of living. A teacher in this group receives the highest housing allowance, ranging from 3,850 KES to 6,750 KES, depending on grade level.
Cluster 2: Municipalities of Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyeri, Eldoret, Thika, Kisii, Malindi and Kitale: This cluster has relatively high cost of living compared to rural areas, but lower than Nairobi. major cities and municipalities. .
The housing allowance for this cluster ranges from KES 4,500 to KES 10,000.
Cluster 3: Other Former Communities This cluster includes communities outside of large cities where the cost of living is more affordable. Teachers receive tuition fees between 3,850 KES and 12,800 KES.
Cluster 4: All Other Areas Housing allowance ranges from KES 3,850 to 21,508KES.
It is important to note that this new family allowance structure has significantly increased allowances for teachers in different clusters compared to the previous scheme.
Impacts and Concerns:
The government’s attempt to address regional disparities in housing benefits is laudable but not without criticism. Teachers’ unions and educators in various regions have expressed concerns about the adequacy and fairness of the new structure.
There are several key concerns:
Inequality within clusters: Critics argue that the broad division of regions into clusters overlooks differences in the cost of living, even within the same cluster. Masu. For example, within Cluster 2, there is a large difference in cost of living between Nakuru and Kisumu cities, which may result in disparities in teachers’ standard of living.
Dynamic Cost of Living: The cost of living is not static and can change over time. In some areas, housing and other necessities can inflate quickly, and current structures may not adequately reflect that.
Neglected Rural Areas: Cluster 4 teachers in charge of rural areas still face challenges. While the new structure will increase remuneration, critics argue more needs to be done to attract and retain qualified educators in these regions.
Conclusion:
The new housing allowance scheme is undoubtedly a step towards closing the regional disparity in teachers’ salaries, but it is still at the work stage.
What you need to know about CBC implementation and Funding for schools
What you need to know about CBC implementation and Funding for schools. Years after the government began the significant transition from the 8-4-4 to the 2-6-6-3 educational system, the enormous financial burden of implementing the new curriculum has been made clear.
The government will need over Sh676 billion to successfully implement the new educational program, it is already becoming clear.
To support the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in 2023–2024, there is already a funding shortfall of Sh123 billion.
The disclosure provides a glimpse into the illusive cost of financing CBC, which has divided views among stakeholders in education.
The specifics are included in a draft report being edited before being submitted to the president by the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms (PWPER).
The education task committee has suggested a new funding model for basic education with a reduced capitation rate per kid in an effort to ensure the successful implementation of the CBC.
According to the research, significant resources will need to be mobilized in order to implement the CBC.
Due to the enormous amount of resources required, CBC will need to use its resources wisely and implement sustainable financing methods.
The current funding for free primary education (FPE) is $1,420 per student, and the funding for free day secondary education (FDSE) is $22,244 per student.
The taskforce report, however, appears to capture the true cost of education under CBC under the new capitation for all levels of basic education.
Each nursery school student will receive Sh1,170 from the government each year if the recommendation is included in the final report and approved by the stakeholders.
Every primary school student would receive Sh2,238 annually, while junior secondary students will receive Sh15,043 annually.
According to the revised funding plan, each Senior Secondary student will receive about Sh22,527 per year.
For nursery schools, special needs students would receive an additional subsidy of Sh604 and for primary school students, further allocation of Sh3,624.
Junior secondary and senior school students with special needs would receive an additional Sh10,000.
What you need to know about CBC implementation and Funding for schools
The draft report states that these expenditures account for the value associated with textbooks and teacher manuals, curriculum support materials, ICT materials, school-based teacher capacity development, and tax books and stationery.
Repairs and maintenance, local transportation, energy, water, and internet, extracurricular activities, dignity kitty (sanitary towels), telephone/box rental fees, medical insurance, sanatorium, and non-teaching staff compensation are all included in the new financial plan.
That is not all, though. The task group advises developing a minimal essential package that will be delivered to schools in order to assist their development and infrastructure.
The taskforce contends that each school needs to have a minimum essential package since it provides a realistic set operation cost and capitation to allow the institutions to function regardless of the enrollment of students.
The team stated that the current capitation is a flat fee in which both students from affluent and less affluent families receive an equal amount. According to the draft study, “the equity-based funding model enables well-off families to pay for their children’s education thus reducing pressure on government resources, which can be directed to cushion and support learners from poor and vulnerable.”
It also states that public primary and secondary schools with enrollment below 100 students are considered to be operating below ideally given the cost drivers.
Government unveils Unified Payroll Number (UPN) for all Public Servants
Government unveils Unified Payroll Number (UPN) for all Public Servants. President William Ruto has ordered the deployment of a Unified Payroll Number (UPN) system in all state entities, a crucial step toward reducing the pay bill.
The daring move, revealed in official letters obtained by The Standard, aims to revolutionize government employees’ payment systems, improve administrative processes, and enhance transparency.
Since the employment number and the UPN, referred to as the payroll number on the T-Pay System, would be stated on the employee’s payslip, the influence of this system will be seen by civil servants, teachers, and employees across state agencies and parastatals.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) stated in a letter dated April 24, in response to a circular from the Head of the Public Service, that the implementation of the UPN system aligns with the multi-sectoral taskforce findings and recommendations of the Capacity Assessment and Rationalisation of Public Service report (CARPS), which is intended to improve service delivery in the public sector.
The Commission emphasized the significance of providing permanent, unique identity numbers to public employees in order to promote accountability and expedite payroll management.
“The Head of the Public Service communicated to all Public Service entities the National Government’s decision to adopt an integrated Human Resource System known as the Unified Human Resource System (UHR).” In a letter to teachers, TSC CEO Nancy Macharia stated, “The system shall be a shared platform for Public Sector Human Resources-related data, including payroll information.”
Every public servant will be granted a permanent unique identification number under the newly implemented UPN Allocation System. This system aims to change payroll management for government personnel, promoting more efficiency and accountability in the public sector.
The program is in response to the CARPS recommendations from 2015, which called for the creation of a unified human resource and payroll number generation system for the public sector.
“The initiative towards an integrated data platform follows recommendations of the CARPS Report (2015), which proposed, among other things, the implementation of a “Unified Human Resource and Payroll Number generating system (UHR and UPN for the Public Service,” according to a letter dated April 24 and copied to all directors and TSC Regional Directors, TSC County Directors, and TSC Sub-County Directors.
“As a result, under the Unified Payroll Numbers (UPN) Allocation System, all public servants will be assigned a permanent unique identification number.”
According to the CARPS research, there is a need for a unified system that is linked to numerous databases such as the National Registration, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS).
It warned of lax controls over human resource information and payroll administration, the absence of a skills and competencies framework, and the hiring of underutilized employees.
All government personnel, including civil servants, teachers, and state agency employees, would be consolidated into a single, streamlined payment structure under the UPN system.
According to state officials, the unified strategy strives to minimize disparities and ensure fair and equitable compensation for all public employees. The UPN system will improve efficiency, reduce fraud, and eliminate duplicate paperwork associated with different payroll systems by providing each individual a permanent and unique identification number.
President Ruto’s bold decision comes at a critical juncture in the government’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in public service.
“I have directed the Salaries and Remuneration Committee to provide us with international best practices in order to narrow the pay gap between those paid the least and those paid the most.” “It is not right for the top to earn 100 times more than the bottom,” Ruto remarked on Friday.
Government unveils Unified Payroll Number (UPN) for all Public Servants
The UPN system’s implementation addresses concerns such as ghost workers… double-dipping, and erroneous compensation, protecting public monies and fostering responsible governance.
According to Public Service Commission sources, the UPN Allocation System would usher in a new era of effective payroll management in the public sector. Authorities will be able to correctly monitor salary disbursements by allocating unique identification numbers, ensuring that each public servant receives their rightful wage.
The implementation of the UPN system represents a significant advancement in ongoing efforts. This will help to modernize administrative operations and develop a fair and simplified remuneration structure for all government officials.
“By transforming payroll management and promoting transparency,. this ground-breaking initiative will undoubtedly have a long-term impact on the public sector. It will fostering a culture of efficiency, fairness, and accountability.”
Teachers demand new salary as unions seek CBA discussions.
Teachers demand new salary as unions seek CBA discussions. Days after the government hinted at a pay increase for all public employees, teachers’ unions have made a new argument for salary reviews.
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) contend that it is time to resume negotiations in order to offer teachers the best wage package.
According to The Kenyaupdates.co.ke, the two unions seek to begin compensation negotiations under the 2021–2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in order to work out the best possible terms for their members. However, this new initiative comes just after President William Ruto promised a wage increase for all state employees.
For civil officials starting on July 1, the State approved a wage increase of seven to ten percent. Teachers would benefit most from harmonised pay in the public sector, according to statistics issued by the pay and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
According to SRC Chairperson Lyn Mengich, the teaching service will receive the lion’s share of the annual sum of Sh9.1 billion.
In the larger scheme to align salaries to international standards, she said that the increase for teachers accounts for 40% of the whole figure.
Kenya Updates has established that the unions appear to be advocating for a methodical approach to arriving at the exact numbers that would be advantageous to their members in particular job.
Kuppet has requested an urgent meeting to finalize the compensation increase. In a letter to the teachers’ employer, Akello Misori, the secretary general of the union. is pushing for the conference to be called so that the 2021–2025 CBA negotiations can resume.
Misori expressed his dissatisfaction with the length of time it was taking to improve the conditions of the contract in a letter dated July 3, 2023 to Nancy Macharia, the chief executive of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
Misori added, “We wish to request an urgent meeting to re-open discussions for a new CBA in light of the President’s announcement on Friday, June 30.
The union wants TSC to start talks so they can return to the negotiation table and work on creating better terms of service for their members. Given the urgency of the teachers’ compensation requests, Misori added, “We would appreciate a meeting at the earliest convenience of the commission but in any case, not later than two weeks of this writing.”
Questions posed
TSC acknowledged receipt of the request in a letter dated July 4, 2023, which was sent through Cavin Anyuor, the Commission’s legal counsel.”We thus acknowledge receiving your message. Anyuor spoke on behalf of the Commission’s supervisor and said, “The Commission is examining the issues presented therein and will respond as soon as possible”.
Misori, however, asserted that the meeting is long overdue and will revive the arrangement that the SRC put on hold two years ago. In a prior proposal made under the CBA, Kuppet requested wage increases for the highest and lowest paid employees of between 30 and 70%.
Teachers demand new salary as unions seek CBA discussions.
CBC Shape up: See Ruto’s 42 Member Team to Review the CBC
CBC Shape up: See Ruto’s 42 Member Team to Review the CBC. President William Ruto has begun the route toward significant education reforms from primary school to university level.
This follows the appointment of a 42-member team, led by renowned educationist Prof Raphael Munavu, to collect views and propose radical changes that would affect the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), rethink middle-level training, and suggest changes to university education.
Kenyans will know in six months whether the CBC will remain the same or whether its implementation framework would change dramatically.
Ruto promised in his inaugural speech to organize a task team to enhance public input in order to streamline critical challenges in the implementation of CBC.
In a gazette notice published Wednesday, Ruto requested that the panel establish an appropriate structure for implementing the CBC. This means that the current way of rolling out the CBC under the 2-6-6-3 framework may change, and a completely new structure may be presented. It also implies that the transition technique under the current implementation structure may be altered, as well as the location of Junior Secondary Education classrooms.
See Ruto’s 42 Member Team to Review the CBC
From Left: Prof Raphael munavu, UoN vice chancellor Prof. Stephen Gitahi , Mr Peter mokaya Tabichi among others
The committee has also been entrusted with reviewing and recommending modifications to the execution of features driving the competency-based approach, such as value-based education, community service learning, parental empowerment, and involvement.
The task force will include University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama, Kenyatta University Prof Paul Wainaina, former Moi University VC Prof David Some, church and private school representatives, award-winning teacher Peter Tabichi, and a slew of other education scholars.
Insiders say the absence of outspoken opponents of the CBC and representatives of teachers’ unions and associations reflects Ruto’s quest for a sober panel that would provide unbiased suggestions.
Competencies that are appropriate
Even though Ruto has permitted the team to co-opt other people with necessary skills, insiders say the remaining groups may only be allowed to submit memoranda.
Furthermore, just seven members of the previous task group, which was established by former Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha, have been included in the current committee, which, according to insiders, will provide insider information on why specific CBC implementation decisions were taken.
The group will also include seven secretaries from the Kenya National Examination Council, Teachers Service Commission, Ministry of Education, and Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development.
The team will also be asked to review the framework for evaluations and examinations and offer comments on whether the current system will work.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka led Ukambani leaders in commemorating the Saba Saba rallies against President William Ruto’s administration on Thursday.
Kenyans, according to Kalonzo, were tired of what he called the Kenya Kwanza government’s persecution.
During the Saba Saba protests in Machakos County, he began collecting signatures against President William Ruto’s administration at Kathiani.
According to the Ukambani leader, the road of protests against Kenya Kwanza’s dictatorship had only just begun.
“God has a plan for this country, and His will must be carried out,” Kalonzo stated.
According to Kalonzo, most Kenyans are suffering as a result of increased living costs induced by the government’s inflation.
“Badala ya watu wakae wazungumze, wanakalia wengine kimabavu, wanakalia wengine kimabavu.” “In a democratic country, we can’t do that,” Kalonzo explained.
TSC Releases Score sheet To Be Used In Intern Recruitment
TSC Releases Score sheet To Be Used In Intern Recruitment. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has made 20,000 seats for teacher interns accessible. According to the most current announcement, there are 2,000 primary school slots and 18,000 junior secondary school seats.
This raises concerns among educators and current interns who had planned to be hired permanently and be eligible for pensions from the commission.
On Wednesday, July 5, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) announced 20,000 teaching opportunities for junior secondary schools (18,000 openings) and primary schools (2,000 positions).
According to the commission’s job description, the interns will be distributed over 47 counties, with Kitui County receiving 758 intern instructors.
The following is the score sheet that will be used to guide the hiring process:
TSC New Score sheet To Be Used In Intern RecruitmentTSC New Score sheet To Be Used In Intern Recruitment
Primary school teachers would be entitled for a monthly pay of Ksh15,000. Junior secondary school teachers would get Ksh20,000.
TSC Releases Score sheet To Be Used In Intern Recruitment
TSC New Score sheet To Be Used In Intern Recruitment
The internship will run 12 months during fiscal year 2023-2024.
It aims to place unemployed registered instructors in educational settings where they can receive coaching, mentoring, and exposure to real-world teaching scenarios in order to improve their teaching abilities.
How to Apply
All qualified individuals were required to apply online using the TeachersOnline.tsc.go.ke website or the Careers link on the tsc.go.ke official website.
The commission informed all applicants that manual submissions would not be considered.
The following are some prerequisites for JSS interns:
The individual must be a Kenyan citizen.
A diploma in education, or the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KSCE) or its equivalent, with a minimum mean grade of C+ (plus) and C+ (plus) in two teaching topics, is required.
A registered instructor with the Teachers Service Commission is required.
However, the following are the qualifications for elementary education interns:
You must be a Kenyan citizen.
Having a PI certificate holder is required.
The proprietor must be a TSC-registered business.
Important Note
To cover personal risks, all selected candidates will be required to have Personal Accident Insurance for the duration of the internship.
Among the documents required are the National Identity Card or passport, the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) card, the Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number (KRA PIN), and two coloured passport-size photographs.
Candidates should also provide a copy of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) if applicable.
TSC emphasized the open and fair application process and cautioned prospective applicants not to fall for con artists’ ploys.
The Teachers Service Commission has also advised that. “any fraudulent activity should be reported to the nearest TSC office, Teachers Service Commission headquarters, or the nearest police station.”
Current interns will soon discover whether they will continue to serve until 2025. The commission is likely to accept them into permanent posts with pension benefits.
Murathe is expelled from the party, and the tribunal affirms Kanini Kega as Jubilee SG.
Murathe is expelled from the party, and the tribunal affirms Kanini Kega as Jubilee SG. Kanini Kega, an EALA member, has been confirmed as the secretary general of the Jubilee party by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal, putting an end to any leadership disputes within the previous ruling party.
Former Jubilee National Vice-Chairman David Murathe and Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni were also expelled, according to the Tribunal.
As a result, the pro-President William Ruto Jubilee MPs are now in charge.
This is a change from last month’s decision, which prohibited the Kega-led Jubilee renegade faction and newly nominated MP Sabina Chege from speaking on the party’s behalf.
The organization’s decision to leave the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition was halted by the Tribunal in a directive to the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.
The PPDT’s order stated: “It is hereby ordered that interim conservatory orders are hereby issued prohibiting all parties hereto and/or their representatives jointly and severally from issuing any communications and/or making any public representations on behalf of the Jubilee party, pending hearing and determination of the complaint and application filed herein inter partes.
Photo of Kanini Kega the EALA mp (Left) and Sabina chege (Right) while addressing the press
“And further staying communication dated June 6, 2023, and June 13, 2023, issued by the third respondent, and any other communication and/or decisions that may have been issued and/or taken by any of the parties hereto on behalf of Jubilee party during the pendency of these proceedings,” the statement continues.
