Nairobi, Kenya – In a dramatic announcement that has sent waves across the education sector, the government has pledged to convert 20,000 intern teachers to permanent and pensionable terms starting January 2026—despite no allocated funds in the current budget. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi made the revelation before Parliament, confirming President William Ruto’s directive, sparking both hope and skepticism among educators.
Breaking: TSC to Absorb Interns Permanently
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has been at the center of heated debates over the employment of intern teachers, with many complaining of low pay and job insecurity. Now, in what could be the latest TSC news shaking the profession, the government has vowed to hire them permanently—even as questions linger over funding.
Appearing before the National Assembly Education Committee, CS Mbadi admitted that no money was set aside for the conversion but insisted the move would proceed.
“There was no allocation for this, but I now must look for money and employ these teachers permanently by January next year. We will ensure it is done,” he declared.
Sh5.4 Billion Needed – Where Will the Money Come From?
The conversion, expected to cost Sh5.4 billion, comes amid a tight fiscal environment, with the Treasury grappling with rising security costs and emergencies. Yet, Mbadi emphasized that education remains a top priority, with Sh702.7 billion allocated in the 2025/2026 budget—the highest of any sector.
But with intern teachers’ contracts expiring in December, MPs like Kitutu Masala’s Clive Gisairo demanded clarity, questioning how the government would fulfill its promise without a budget.
“The president has pronounced himself, and it is now my responsibility to ensure this happens,” Mbadi responded, leaving many wondering if tax hikes or budget cuts elsewhere will foot the bill.
TSC News Today: Intern Teachers’ Long Wait for Permanency
For years, intern teachers have worked on short-term contracts, earning a fraction of what permanent staff make. Many have staged protests, demanding better terms. Now, the latest TSC news today on recruitment suggests a major shift—but skepticism remains.
Key Details:
- 20,000 intern teachers to be absorbed permanently.
- Sh5.4 billion required—currently unfunded.
- Sh2.34 billion allocated for new intern hires in 2026.
- Sh7.68 billion already set aside for teacher recruitment this year.
Education CS Backs Move, But Challenges Loom
Accompanied by Education CS Julius Ogamba, Mbadi stressed that despite financial constraints, the government is committed to reducing teacher shortages.
“We recognize underfunding in some areas, but we are prioritizing education,” he said, highlighting allocations for CBC implementation, infrastructure, and salaries.
However, critics argue that without a clear funding plan, the promise could collapse—leaving thousands in limbo.
Will This Solve Kenya’s Teacher Shortage?
Kenya faces a severe teacher deficit, with CBC expansion straining schools. While the TSC has recruited thousands of interns, permanent employment has been elusive.
Experts warn:
- Budget constraints may delay the process.
- Political pressure could be driving the announcement.
- Interns may face further delays if revenue falls short.
What’s Next for Intern Teachers?
As the latest TSC news spreads, teachers’ unions are cautiously optimistic but demand transparency.
“We welcome the move, but we need guarantees,” said a KNUT official. “Empty promises won’t help.”
With January 2026 as the target, all eyes are on the Treasury to see if this bold pledge becomes reality—or another broken promise.
Final Verdict: Hope or Hollow Promise?
The government’s vow to convert 20,000 interns is a potential game-changer—but without a clear funding plan, doubts persist. For now, teachers wait anxiously, hoping this TSC news today translates into real change.
What do you think? Will the government deliver, or is this another political maneuver? Share your thoughts below
