Public learning institutions in Kenya are grappling with a severe shortage of teachers, with the current deficit standing at 98,461, according to outgoing Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Chief Executive Nancy Macharia. Junior secondary schools are bearing the brunt, with a shortfall of 72,422 teachers.
Despite the challenge, Mrs Macharia said the government is committed to addressing the issue. Speaking during the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (Kessha) conference in Mombasa yesterday, she announced that the government has allocated Sh2.4 billion in the 2025/26 financial year for the recruitment of 20,000 intern teachers.
“This will bring the total number recruited since late 2022 to 96,000,” she said.
Mrs Macharia further revealed that the Treasury had earmarked Sh1 billion for the promotion of teachers. “This is in addition to the more than 25,000 who have been upgraded this financial year. I urge those qualified to apply for the promotions. I also thank the government for these allocations to the TSC,” she added.
She urged school heads to facilitate a smooth transition for the first Competency-Based Education (CBE) cohort joining Senior School in January. “Fortunately, TSC has been allocated close to Sh1 billion for retooling Senior School teachers on CBE,” she noted.
Expressing her gratitude to school heads for their support over the past decade, Mrs Macharia said: “There is a time for everything. I leave the TSC with pride and head held high.”
Kessha Chairman Willy Kuria commended her leadership, highlighting timely salary payments and the digitisation of TSC services, including teacher registration, transfers, and promotions.
He urged the incoming TSC leadership to prioritise the promotion of principals, many of whom have stagnated in Grade D3. “Stagnation leads to disappointment, reduced morale, burnout and a feeling of betrayal,” he said.
Mr Kuria also proposed the creation of Grade D6 for senior school leaders and experienced educators, stating this would support professional growth and appropriate reward.
He called on TSC to fast-track the confirmation of acting principals. “They should be considered for confirmation. The number of teachers promoted is a drop in the ocean. Promoting 25,000 teachers against a population of 480,000 can barely have an impact on education,” he said.
Kenya Primary School Heads Association Chairman Fuad Ali assured his colleagues of a seamless transition that upholds learners’ rights and competencies.
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