Schools across various counties are growing increasingly reluctant to host programmes organised by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) due to persistent reimbursement delays, which are disrupting the smooth running of school activities.
Since the beginning of the year, principals and head teachers have voiced concerns about organising events that require upfront financial commitments, particularly when the funds promised by TSC are not reimbursed promptly.
This issue came to light during the recent Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) training for Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) teachers.
Many principals initially hesitated to host the event, questioning the TSC’s ability to reimburse them for the costs incurred. The hesitation was only alleviated after CEMASTEA officials intervened and clarified the situation.
One principal from the Central region shared the financial strain of hosting teacher retooling programms, explaining, “Hosting a programme like this requires much money. I used funds meant for subordinate staff salaries, hoping to be reimbursed by the end of the December holidays. I’m at odds with my board members, who feel I misadvised them.” The school even borrowed money from the bank to pay staff wages.
READ ALSO: Beyond memorization: The transformative power true learning
Recently, KNEC faced similar issues, and contracted officials were promptly paid only after intervention from Members of Parliament. This has led to growing dissatisfaction and scepticism among educators about TSC’s ability to plan and execute programmes effectively, particularly when funding is unavailable on time.
Questions are being raised about whether the TSC actually budgets for these activities in advance and why reimbursement delays of up to six months are occurring.
With the TSC planning another round of teacher retooling in April, unpaid teachers from previous training sessions are starting to voice their frustrations, with many calling field officers to inquire about their outstanding allowances.
As discontent rises, principals and head teachers seek help from the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) and the Kenya Primary Schools Heads Association (KEPSHA) to address the issue with the TSC.
One principal candidly admitted, “It’s embarrassing to reject hosting activities for our employer, but we’re cash-strapped and don’t want to offer substandard services.” School leaders are calling for better planning and timely funding to ensure that such programmes can be executed successfully and without financial strain.
By Kaptich Tarus
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
