TSC Needs Extra Kshs.14.6 Billion for Employment of 46,000 Teachers
The Departmental Committee on Education, led by Hon. Julius Melly (Tinderet) has revealed that the Teachers Service Commission requires additional Kshs.14.6 billion to employ 46,000 teachers.
During a session with the Budget and Appropriations Committee chaired by Hon. Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu), Hon.
Melly also proposed converting the contracts of 26,000 intern Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers to permanent and pensionable employment starting July 2024, instead of the proposed January 2025.
He emphasized that this move would significantly enhance the morale of teachers and demonstrate the government’s commitment to their welfare.
Kshs.14.6 billion Needed
Hon. Melly estimated that implementing the conversion from July 2024 would require Kshs.14.6 billion from the government’s coffers.
He pointed out that while Kshs.4.7 billion was allocated to recruit 20,000 intern teachers and Kshs.8.3 billion for converting 26,000 interns to permanent positions, an additional Kshs.14.6 billion would be necessary to cover the shortfall.
Hon. Nyoro sought clarification on the financial implications of backdating the teachers’ confirmation to July 2024.
Hon. Melly responded that the total cost would amount to Kshs.14.6 billion, which is essential to ensure the teachers’ transition to permanent employment aligns with the government’s commitments.
“To employ 46,000 teachers, we need Kshs.28.6 billion yet the Commission has been allocated Kshs.4.7 billion to recruit 20,000 interns and Kshs.8.3 billion to convert 26,000 intern teachers into permanent employment. This therefore means the Government is required to top up the deficit which is Kshs.14.6 billion,” he said.
The Education Committee’s recommendations underscored the importance of adequately funding educational programs such as the School Feeding Programme and ensuring the stability of teaching staff through permanent employment, thereby fostering a conducive learning environment across Kenya.
Melly urged the Budget and Appropriations Committee to reconsider the exclusion of Kshs.4.9 billion from the FY 2024/25 Budget Estimates designated for the School Feeding Programme. Hon.
Melly highlighted that while Kshs.2 billion was reinstated under the National Council for Nomadic Education in Kenya (NACONEK) for the programme, an additional Kshs.2 billion is needed to fully restore the funding.
TSC Needs Extra Kshs.14.6 Billion for Employment of 46,000 Teachers
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