The nationwide exercise began yesterday and will see teachers from both primary and secondary schools transferred to different schools across the country.
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Teachers are concerned about mass transfers next term as the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) rationalizes staffing across the country.
When it comes to transfers, the TSC’s delocalisation program has been a thorn in the flesh for teachers. Teachers have complained that the transfers are tearing families apart.
The transfers, on the other hand, are a huge relief for teachers who are married and have declared their marital status, because the commission ordered that they be transferred to the same neighbourhood as much as possible.
The exercise, according to Commission CEO Nancy Macharia, is intended to ensure that all schools have a balanced teacher-to-learner ratio before the start of the new academic year. On April 25, 2022, schools will reopen for the first term.
The nationwide exercise began yesterday and will see teachers from both primary and secondary schools transferred to different schools across the country.
Ms Macharia stated in a circular to all TSC regional directors that despite the commission’s numerous efforts to address teacher shortages, the situation is exacerbated by irregular teacher distribution.
She noted that if the issue was left unchecked, it will have a negative impact on learning outcomes in our learning institutions.
She directed regional directors to work with county directors in their respective regions to coordinate teacher rationalization and ensure equitable distribution across schools.
“Any arising movements conducted in the local areas must have a human face and must be well discussed with all relevant offices to ensure equity for all of our learners in tandem with existing staffing norms,” said Ms Macharia.
According to TSC, there are 114,581 teachers needed in primary and secondary schools.
Age, health status, disabilities, marital status, and time served at the current school are all factors to consider when transferring teachers.
Teachers over the age of 56, as well as those with proven terminal illnesses, will be exempt from the transfer. Others are disabled teachers who have the necessary certification.
“The committee will evaluate each case on its own merit, taking into consideration the supporting medical documents, availability and accessibility to the appropriate medical facilities, among otherfactors in the proposed station,” she said.
Transfer Eligibility
To be eligible for transfers, teachers must have served in a station for at least three years, or five years for North Eastern and other areas, respectively, since their first appointment unless otherwise authorized by the commission’s secretary.
Priority should also be given to teachers who have applied for and are eligible for the transfer.Ms Macharia stated that in cases where teachers meet the transfer criteria, the commission will consider first in, gender balance where applicable, and teacher security.
“Henceforth, teachers transfer will be a continuous exercise to address staffing gaps and to ensure equitable distribution and optimal teacher utilisation,” she added. She said the staff balancing exercises is intended to be complete by May 9.
