Nairobi, Kenya – In a recent statement, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has addressed the ongoing concerns surrounding the Teacher Internship Programme and the subsequent demonstrations by teacher interns.
The statement, released by TSC Chairman Dr. Jamleck Muturi John and obtained by K47 Digital News, outlines the Commission’s position and the steps intern teachers should take following a court ruling on the matter.
The TSC’s statement reads as follows:
“The attention of the Teachers Service Commission is drawn to media reports on demonstrations by teacher interns. The Commission wishes to state as follows:
i. The Teacher Internship Programme is a national government initiative aimed at providing practical working experience.
ii. The Forum for Good Governance and Human Rights petitioned the Court challenging the Teacher Internship Programme.
iii. The Court ruled in favor of the petitioner but subsequently stayed the judgement until 1st August, 2024.
iv. The Commission calls upon the teacher interns engaged under the programme to obey the court order and go back to school as teaching and learning in all public schools formally resumed on 13th May, 2024.
v. The Commission remains committed and responsive to issues affecting the Teaching Service.”
This directive comes in the wake of a significant legal challenge presented by the Forum for Good Governance and Human Rights. The forum filed a petition against the Teacher Internship Programme, citing concerns about its implementation and impact on the rights of intern teachers.
The Employment and Labour Relations Court of Kenya, presided over by Hon. Justice Byram Ongaya, delivered a ruling on May 9, 2024. The case, formally titled “Republic of Kenya in the Employment and Labour Relations Court of Kenya at Nairobi, Petition No. E 223 of 2023,” listed the Forum for Good Governance and Human Rights as the petitioner and the Teachers Service Commission as the first respondent, with the Ministry of Education and the Attorney General also named as respondents.
The court’s decision initially sided with the petitioner, potentially halting the internship programme. However, the judgement was stayed until August 1, 2024, allowing the programme to continue temporarily. This stay means that intern teachers are legally required to resume their duties despite the pending legal review.
In response to the court’s stay, the TSC has emphasized the importance of compliance with the legal directive. The Commission has called on all intern teachers to return to their posts and ensure that educational activities proceed smoothly. This is crucial as public schools across Kenya officially resumed teaching and learning on May 13, 2024.
Dr. Jamleck Muturi John reassured intern teachers and the public of the Commission’s dedication to addressing any issues within the teaching service. He highlighted the TSC’s ongoing commitment to improving the conditions and rights of teachers, including those in internship roles.
The Teacher Internship Programme is designed to provide new educators with practical experience, bridging the gap between theoretical training and real-world teaching. The programme has been instrumental in supporting the professional development of numerous teachers across Kenya.
The TSC’s statement aims to clarify the situation for intern teachers and prevent further disruptions in the education sector. The Commission urges all involved parties to adhere to the court’s directive and work towards a resolution that benefits both educators and students.
As the situation develops, the TSC remains vigilant and prepared to make any necessary adjustments in response to legal and educational needs. The Commission’s proactive stance is a testament to its role in safeguarding the interests of the teaching profession and ensuring the continuity of quality education in Kenya.
