TSC faces Senate scrutiny over 'unfair' teacher promotions

The Senate has called for a full investigation into the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) following allegations of unjustified teacher promotions that have sparked widespread criticism.

Senators have voiced concerns over the promotion process, questioning the fairness and transparency of how 25,252 teachers were advanced, with particular attention to how densely populated counties received fewer promotions.

This call comes after members of the National Assembly also raised alarms about the TSC’s decision-making.

The controversy centers around claims that the criteria used to promote teachers were opaque and unfair, with some regions benefiting more than others.

Senators are now urging the commission to explain how it determined the distribution model and why certain counties received a disproportionate number of promotions.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka took the lead in demanding answers, insisting that the TSC clarify whether the promotion process adhered to the principles of equity, inclusivity, and merit.

He specifically pointed to the need for the commission to justify its promotion model, which left some high-population counties behind, despite having more teachers eligible for promotion.

"Why were long-serving teachers with advanced qualifications overlooked in favour of younger, less experienced teachers?"

Onyonka questioned. "We need to know why this disparity occurred and if the commission has a reasonable explanation for it."

The senators also want to know if any mechanisms were put in place to allow teachers who felt wronged by the process to appeal their cases.

They are pressing the commission to provide information on how many teachers lodged complaints and how many have been resolved.

The Education Committee, led by nominated Senator Betty Montet, has been tasked with overseeing the inquiry.

The committee is expected to investigate whether the TSC has taken adequate steps to ensure fairness and transparency in its promotion processes, particularly when dealing with teachers who have faced long periods of career stagnation.

Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri did not hold back in her criticism of the TSC, labeling it a “corrupt institution” where some officials allegedly demand bribes from teachers seeking promotions.

"We have seen teachers with over 17 years of experience passed over for promotions, while others with only one year of service were promoted," Senator Okenyuri claimed.

"This is a clear sign of how deeply the corruption runs in the commission."

Her remarks reflect a growing frustration within the Senate, as lawmakers demand a clean-up of the TSC’s leadership.

Okenyuri’s call for action was echoed by several other senators, who insisted that only a thorough overhaul of the agency’s leadership would restore faith in the teacher promotion system.

Senators now hope that the Education Committee will uncover whether the TSC’s actions were aligned with its mission to promote fairness and equal opportunities for all teachers, regardless of region or background.