Introduction The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Kenya is set to recruit 20,000 new intern teachers by January 2025, marking a significant effort to address the staffing shortages in schools and support the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) rollout. Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba recently announced this recruitment drive as part of the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector. This massive hiring wave follows the successful recruitment of 56,000 teachers and is part of a broader strategy to meet the demands of the new CBC curriculum, particularly in Junior Secondary Schools.
In this article, we break down everything aspiring teachers need to know about this recruitment, from eligibility requirements and application steps to the benefits of the internship program and how it contributes to solving Kenya’s teacher shortage crisis. Whether you’re an aspiring educator or a stakeholder in the education sector, this guide provides crucial insights into TSC’s plan.
1. Why is TSC Hiring 20,000 Teachers?
The planned hiring of 20,000 intern teachers in January 2025 by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) stems from the need to address teacher shortages and ensure a successful rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). According to CS Julius Ogamba, this recruitment aligns with the government’s education policy and aims to bridge staffing gaps in junior secondary and primary schools. The Education Ministry, under Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang, has also indicated that the additional recruitment is essential for the continuous support of the CBC.
These new teaching positions will be on an internship basis, with 18,000 interns assigned to junior secondary levels and 2,000 to primary schools. The internship contract will last two years, providing valuable teaching experience to candidates and helping address immediate staffing needs in schools nationwide.
2. Eligibility Requirements for the TSC Internship Program
To qualify for the TSC internship program, applicants must meet specific educational and certification requirements, which vary based on the school level. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Primary School Intern Teachers:
- Hold a Primary Teacher Education (PTE) or Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DPTE) certificate.
- Be registered with TSC.
- Junior Secondary School Intern Teachers:
- Possess at least a diploma in education.
- Have a minimum grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exam, including a C+ in two teaching subjects.
- Be registered with TSC.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for TSC Internships
The application process for TSC internships is exclusively online, simplifying the process for prospective teachers. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the TSC internship program:
- Create an Account on the TSC Portal: Applicants need to register on the official TSC portal, where they can fill in personal information and create a profile.
- Upload Required Documents: After creating a profile, candidates must upload all necessary documents, including their academic certificates, identification, and TSC registration proof.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with details such as the preferred teaching location and subjects.
- Submit the Application: Double-check the application form and click submit. Candidates will receive a confirmation email or notification on the portal.
- Verification and Interview Process: TSC will conduct document verification and interviews. Candidates will be notified of any interview requirements.
4. Document Requirements for Verification
For verification, applicants must have the following documents:
- Teacher Registration Certificate (or print-out from TSC online portal)
- National Council for Persons with Disability (NCPWD) card (if applicable)
- National Identity Card (ID) or passport
- Two recent passport-size photos
- National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) card
- Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Personal Identification Number (PIN)
During verification, candidates are encouraged to have these documents in both digital and physical formats.
5. What Intern Teachers Can Expect in Terms of Payment and Benefits
TSC provides a monthly stipend to intern teachers during their service. The stipend structure is as follows:
- Primary School Interns: Receive Ksh 15,000 per month.
- Junior Secondary School Interns: Earn Ksh 20,000 per month.
In addition to the stipend, intern teachers benefit from structured mentorship, coaching, and hands-on teaching experience. Upon completing the internship, they receive a certificate which awards additional marks during future permanent employment evaluations.
6. The Impact of TSC’s Teacher Internship Program on CBC Success
The Teacher Internship Program is critical in providing support for the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), particularly in junior secondary grades. With plans to employ 111,870 teachers by 2028, TSC’s recruitment strategy targets teacher shortages across all basic learning institutions, facilitating a seamless transition and implementation of the CBC.
Moreover, the government has embarked on building 18,000 new classrooms to support the Grade 9 intake in January 2025. This construction is partially funded by development partners and Constituency Development Funds (CDF), with 11,000 classrooms being developed by partners and 7,000 through CDF initiatives.
7. Future of Education: Long-Term TSC Goals to Address Teacher Shortage
The current recruitment drive is part of TSC’s larger strategy to reduce the national teacher shortage and equip schools with qualified educators. The conversion of 46,000 intern teachers to permanent, pensionable terms in January 2025 is expected to stabilize staffing levels, as these teachers will be stationed permanently in various regions.
The government’s allocation of Ksh 18.7 billion for this conversion underscores its dedication to maintaining a robust and stable teaching workforce. TSC’s long-term target is to have over 111,000 teachers in service by 2028, ensuring a more sustainable education system aligned with CBC requirements.
8. How to Stay Updated on TSC Recruitment Processes and Opportunities
For prospective applicants, staying updated on TSC recruitment is crucial. The TSC frequently posts announcements on its official website, including details on new positions, deadlines, and document requirements. Following reliable news sources such as K47 Digital News and checking the TSC portal can help candidates avoid missing critical updates.
Conclusion With 20,000 teaching positions opening in January 2025, TSC’s Teacher Internship Program offers a valuable opportunity for aspiring educators to gain experience while supporting Kenya’s education reforms. As TSC strives to address teacher shortages and enhance the Competency-Based Curriculum, these internships will play a pivotal role in equipping classrooms with qualified instructors.
By joining this initiative, interns can contribute to the nation’s educational goals, gain practical skills, and benefit from mentorship in a structured environment. The government’s ongoing investment in infrastructure and teacher employment solidifies Kenya’s commitment to education, making this recruitment a significant milestone for the country’s education sector.
Call to Action Aspiring teachers should prepare for the application process, ensuring they meet all eligibility criteria and have the required documents ready for verification. Don’t miss this opportunity to become part of Kenya’s transformative education journey—apply for the TSC internship today!
