TSC Warns of 2-Year Jail Term & Ksh 100,000 Fine for Kenyans Teaching Without Approval

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in teaching without the required approval. According to the latest directive, any Kenyan found teaching in schools without the necessary certification or authorization from the TSC could face a hefty penalty, including a two-year jail sentence and a fine of up to Ksh 100,000.

This move by the TSC is aimed at maintaining high standards of education and protecting students from unqualified and unethical individuals posing as teachers. Recent cases of unregistered teachers being involved in improper student-teacher relationships have further highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of this policy.

Unregistered Teachers and Student Exploitation

Several incidents have been reported in Kenyan schools where unregistered teachers engaged in inappropriate relationships with students. These cases not only brought shame to the teaching profession but also exposed students to psychological trauma and disrupted their education.

Case 1: Scandal in a Secondary School
In 2023, an unregistered teacher working in a private secondary school in Nakuru was arrested after being accused of having an improper relationship with a Form Three student. Investigations revealed that the individual had no formal teaching qualifications and had falsified documents to secure the job.
Case 2: A Primary School Predicament
In another incident in Machakos County, an unregistered teacher at a local primary school was implicated in exploiting several students. Parents discovered the issue after noticing changes in their children’s behavior. The teacher was later arrested, but the damage to the students’ mental well-being had already been done.
Case 3: Breach of Trust in ASAL Regions
In 2024, a case in Wajir County surfaced where an unregistered teacher hired to fill a gap in an understaffed school was found guilty of inappropriate behavior with students. The incident led to protests from parents and calls for stricter vetting of teachers in remote areas.

These cases demonstrate the dangers of allowing unqualified and unregistered individuals into the teaching profession. Without proper vetting and approval by the TSC, schools risk hiring individuals who may exploit their positions and harm students.

Why TSC Registration is Crucial

Education is the backbone of any nation, and Kenya is no exception. By ensuring that only certified teachers are in the classroom, the TSC is safeguarding the quality of education and protecting students from harm. Teaching is not just about delivering lessons; it is about shaping the character and future of young minds.

Registered teachers go through rigorous training, ethical orientation, and vetting to ensure they are not only competent but also trustworthy. The presence of unregistered individuals compromises the integrity of the profession and exposes students to unnecessary risks.

Steps to Ensure Compliance

Teachers are encouraged to ensure they are fully registered with the TSC and meet all the necessary qualifications before taking up teaching positions. Here are the key steps to take:

Complete the Necessary Training: Ensure that you have gone through an accredited institution that provides the required qualifications for teaching.
Register with the TSC: Once trained, apply for registration with the TSC. Make sure to complete all the necessary paperwork and pay any required fees.
Report Suspicious Cases: Parents and school administrators should remain vigilant and report any cases of unregistered teachers or improper conduct to the authorities.

Conclusion

The TSC’s warning serves as a timely reminder of the importance of upholding professionalism in the teaching profession. Schools must take extra care to verify the credentials of teachers they hire, while aspiring educators must ensure they meet all the legal requirements. By enforcing these measures, Kenya can continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment for its students, free from exploitation and unqualified individuals.

Let us work together to ensure that only certified and ethical professionals are entrusted with shaping the future of our children.