KNUT Appeals to TSC to Prioritise P1 Teachers in Upcoming Recruitment.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Kipkelion branch, has called on the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to give first consideration to Primary Teacher 1 (P1) instructors in its next recruitment drive. The union believes these teachers have long been overlooked despite their essential contributions to the education system.
Branch Secretary David Bore voiced concern over the prolonged neglect of qualified P1 teachers, many of whom remain jobless or are underutilised, even after years of committed service. Bore pointed out that these educators play a central role in early childhood education and deserve recognition in the hiring process.
While addressing teachers in Kipkelion, Bore stated that P1 teachers are the foundation of primary education, particularly in lower classes. He argued that sidelining them in favour of diploma holders for identical roles is unjust and called on the TSC to rectify this imbalance. “The morale of our teachers is low, and this is affecting the quality of education in our schools,” he added.
Concern Over Political Interference
The union also raised alarm over the increasing involvement of politicians in the recruitment of teachers. Bore criticised the practice of political figures distributing appointment letters, asserting that it undermines the independence of the TSC. According to him, such actions contradict the commission’s legal mandate and compromise fairness in teacher recruitment.
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Bore stressed that TSC, established by law as an independent body, must carry out its duties without external influence. He said the union is troubled by what it sees as the commission stepping back from its core responsibilities. “It is worrying to see TSC relinquishing its authority while politicians take over roles meant for the commission,” Bore remarked.
KNUT further demanded that the hiring process remain professional, transparent, and grounded in legal procedures. The union warned that any irregularities would not be tolerated and insisted that all qualified teachers deserve an equal opportunity in recruitment. They called for strict adherence to fair practices that ensure merit and equity across all levels of teacher deployment.
KNUT Appeals to TSC to Prioritise P1 Teachers in Upcoming Recruitment.
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