Teachers Reflect on 2024 Challenges Under TSC, Hope for a Better 2025.
Teachers hope for a brighter 2025 after enduring numerous hardships under their employer, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The past year was marked by frustrations stemming from flawed promotional interviews, increased financial burdens, and unresolved grievances.
The year commenced with the release of results from promotional interviews conducted in December 2023. Many teachers were optimistic after assurances from the TSC’s CEO about fairness in the process.
However, when the results were released in February and March 2024, many were left disheartened. Teachers who had acted in higher capacities or served long in one job group were not prioritized, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
One notable case involved a teacher whose former students, now educators themselves, were promoted while he received a regret letter. His despair escalated to the point of contemplating quitting the profession. Discontent over the process triggered go-slows in schools nationwide.
Job Group and Promotion Irregularities
Reports of promotions granted to teachers who had left the service, had less than three years in a job group, or were yet to be employed further demoralized the teaching workforce.
Teachers’ unions were urged to advocate for the reintroduction of the Schemes of Service (SOS) to replace the unpopular Career Progression Guidelines (CPG). Under SOS, automatic job group progression after three years provided clarity and fairness, unlike the current CPG system.
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Amidst the promotional setbacks, teachers faced additional financial strains in 2024. New deductions for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and the Housing Levy were introduced, compounding the existing Provident Fund contributions.
These deductions reduced teachers’ financial stability and creditworthiness, making it difficult for them to secure loans from banks and saccos.
Teachers’ economic challenges forced many to enroll their children in day schools, with some competing for bursaries from the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) and county governments.
However, many applications were declined, as society often viewed teachers as undeserving of financial aid, exacerbating their plight.
Workshops and Unmet Promises
Throughout the year, teachers were required to attend various workshops, including retooling exercises. Despite promises of allowances to cover expenses, the TSC failed to honor these commitments.
Some training officials dismissed the demands for allowances, claiming that attendance was part of regular duties.
This neglect forced many teachers to walk long distances to training venues, further straining their morale. Disillusioned educators criticized unions for failing to address their grievances.
Intern teachers’ calls for permanent employment were another significant issue in 2024. Frustrated by two years of low pay and limited prospects, interns organized street protests and sought alternative employment.
The government’s eventual decision to convert many interns to permanent and pensionable terms provided some relief, though the delays had already impacted morale.
Outlook for 2025
As teachers prepare for 2025, optimism remains low. Reports of potential increases in SHIF deductions and plans allowing teachers with only six months’ service to compete for promotions further dampen spirits. Many see these developments as detrimental to an already demoralized profession.
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The challenges of 2024 have left the teaching fraternity yearning for meaningful reforms to restore confidence and improve working conditions in the coming year.
Teachers Reflect on 2024 Challenges Under TSC, Hope for a Better 2025.
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