This archive report was first published on 22 December 2019.
December 22, 2019 - The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has reversed its decision requiring school principals to hold a Master's degree, following concerns raised by the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet).
According to TSC Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Nancy Macharia, the decision was made after a job evaluation. However, she acknowledged that many teachers did not meet the requirement and thanked teachers for their feedback on the matter.
"We will re-advertise the vacancies that were affected," Mrs Macharia said.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) had asked the TSC to withdraw the requirement, citing that many teachers did not have the degree.
Secretary-General Akelo Misori said the commission introduced a career progression guideline which did not require a Master's degree.
Despite the reversal, Mrs Macharia noted that a number of teachers have taken advantage of the liberalisation of higher education in Kenya and obtained academic and professional qualifications beyond the entry requirements.
"The commission commends such teachers for the initiative of obtaining new skills and knowledge. The teaching service, being the foundation of knowledge acquisition, requires its members to go beyond the minimum requirements in terms of training," she said.
The TSC boss also emphasized the commission's commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at quality education for all.
"The commission will continue exploring alternative modes of curriculum delivery and lobbying for extra funding to address the teacher shortage," added Mrs Macharia.
