KESSHA praises TSC for fair recruitment of teachers this time

The Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KSSHA) has commended the ongoing nationwide recruitment of teachers, describing it as a fair and transparent process.

Speaking in Ogembo, Gucha Sub-county Branch Chairman Kennedy Ayubu praised the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for utilizing a systematic approach based on applicants’ years of college completion and merit grades for teacher recruitment.

“Unlike in previous years, when fresh graduates were often recruited through backdoor channels, leaving out those who completed their studies earlier, we are now witnessing fairness in the process,” he said.

Ayubu highlighted the critical role that education plays in the country and warned against any mismanagement that could adversely affect the development of the region.

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He added that teacher recruitment is important for finding and selecting qualified teachers to fill roles in educational institutions and urged those involved in the recruitment process to uphold integrity.

The chairman noted that many schools across the country have raised concerns about a shortage of teachers, especially in light of the increasing number of students due to the 100 percent transition policy.

He underscored the importance of a fair recruitment process, which directly impacts the quality of education that students receive.

Good moral character

He asked the TSC to continually update its criteria to hire teachers possessing knowledge and good moral character. He also encouraged the commission to engage current teachers in the vetting process for new recruits.

“Schools can motivate staff to refer qualified candidates, particularly those who are passionate about teaching and genuinely care for their students,” he added.

Further addressing the issue of married female teachers who have been instructed to return to their birthplaces for recruitment, Ayubu described this policy as punitive. He urged local chiefs and their assistants to intervene and support these applicants.

He said, “We have women who might not possess marriage certificates due to traditional customs such as elopement. These individuals should not be penalized by being excluded from the recruitment process simply because they lack official documentation; they are recognized by the community as permanent residents.”

The chairman also encouraged current teachers to mentor those who are newly recruited, helping them navigate their careers in the education sector.

By Enock Okong’0