In a bold move to enforce professional standards in education, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has issued a stern warning against unapproved teaching practices in Kenya. TSC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nancy Macharia, through a gazette notice dated January 24, emphasized that teaching without registration under the TSC Act is a punishable offense. The penalties include a two-year jail term, a fine of up to Ksh100,000, or both.
This decisive action is part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics, which aims to uphold professionalism in Kenya’s teaching sector.
The Legal Mandate: Teaching Only for Registered Professionals
Under the TSC Act, individuals are prohibited from engaging in teaching services unless they are registered. “A person shall not engage in the teaching service unless such a person is registered as a teacher under this Act,” warned Nancy Macharia.
Institutions found employing unregistered teachers are equally liable to face legal consequences. The TSC CEO stressed that such schools risk penalties akin to those imposed on unregistered individuals, reinforcing the commission’s zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance.
Deregistered Teachers: A Clear Example
The warning comes on the heels of the deregistration of four teachers accused of violating the TSC Act, Chapter 212 of the Constitution. As of January 22, these individuals, identified by their TSC numbers—695159, 46412, 303790, and 147178—ceased being recognized as teachers.
The commission reiterated that any teacher removed from the register is barred from teaching unless reinstated by explicit direction from the TSC.
“A teacher whose name has been removed from the register shall cease to be a teacher for purposes of this Act with effect from the date of such removal,” stated the commission.
Such cases underscore the importance of adhering to the TSC Code of Conduct and the regulations that govern the teaching profession.
Enforcing Professionalism: The Role of the TSC Code of Conduct
The TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics mandates that teachers perform their duties responsibly and maintain professionalism at all times. Any violation of this code triggers immediate investigations by the commission or its agents.
For instance, when a teacher is accused of breaching the code, the TSC promptly serves a letter of interdiction detailing the allegations. Teachers or school heads under investigation are required to clear with their institutions within 48 hours of receiving the interdiction notice.
Such stringent measures reflect the TSC’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the teaching profession.
Impact on Schools and Teachers
The ripple effect of this crackdown is significant. For schools, hiring unregistered teachers can lead to operational disruptions, reputational damage, and legal repercussions. For teachers, failing to adhere to registration requirements jeopardizes their careers and exposes them to severe penalties.
The move also sends a strong message to aspiring educators: compliance with the TSC Act and the TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics is non-negotiable.
Safeguarding Kenya’s Education Standards
Kenya’s education sector relies heavily on the professionalism of its teachers. The TSC’s actions are a clear indication of its dedication to upholding these standards. By enforcing the law and holding individuals accountable, the commission aims to protect learners from substandard education services.
Nancy Macharia has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in the teaching profession. Her leadership at the helm of the TSC has been marked by a focus on discipline, compliance, and professional growth for educators.
Steps for Compliance
To avoid falling afoul of the TSC regulations, individuals aspiring to teach in Kenya should take the following steps:
- Register with the TSC: Ensure you meet the qualifications and apply for registration.
- Adhere to the Code of Conduct: Familiarize yourself with the TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics and uphold its principles.
- Continuous Professional Development: Participate in training programs and workshops to stay updated on the latest teaching practices and regulations.
Schools, on the other hand, should:
- Verify the TSC registration status of all teaching staff.
- Educate their employees about the importance of compliance with the TSC Code of Conduct.
- Report any suspicious activities or non-compliance to the TSC.
Looking Ahead
The TSC’s stringent enforcement of its regulations is a wake-up call to both educators and institutions. With penalties that include jail time and hefty fines, it is evident that the commission is leaving no room for compromise.
Nancy Macharia’s leadership continues to steer the TSC toward achieving its mandate of fostering professionalism and integrity in Kenya’s teaching fraternity. The recent crackdown serves as a reminder that the teaching profession is not just a job but a commitment to shaping the nation’s future responsibly.
In the words of Nancy Macharia, “Professionalism in the teaching sector is critical for the success of our education system. Teachers must uphold the highest standards as outlined in the TSC Code of Conduct and Ethics.”
As the TSC remains steadfast in its mission, the message is clear: only those who meet the qualifications and abide by the rules have a place in Kenya’s teaching profession.
