Tension is mounting in Kenya’s education sector after the government announced new policies that will have a major impact on teachers nationwide.
On Wednesday, the Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), issued a circular detailing several policy changes that have sparked widespread concern among teachers and their unions.
One of the key changes involves the mandatory transfer of over 15,000 teachers to underserved counties, starting July 1. The government says the move is intended to address teacher shortages in marginalized regions, especially in North Eastern and coastal Kenya.
Unlike before, teachers can no longer appeal these transfers, and they have been given a two-week deadline to report to their new postings without exception.
The government has also rolled out a new digital performance appraisal system for public school teachers. This system requires teachers to submit online lesson plans, upload weekly progress reports, and conduct continuous assessments through a centralized digital platform. While the Ministry says the system will boost accountability and improve academic outcomes, many teachers argue that schools lack the infrastructure—such as stable internet and digital devices—needed to support the initiative.
Another significant change is the suspension of automatic promotions for diploma-level teachers. Instead, they will now be required to pass a new national competency exam, set to begin in August. This departs from the traditional promotion model based on seniority and years of experience.
Teachers’ unions have rejected these changes, with Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary-General Collins criticizing them as harsh, unrealistic, and ill-timed. He has called for urgent consultations between the government and education stakeholders.
Across the country, teachers are expressing anger and worry, and some counties are already organizing protests. Parents and students are also concerned about possible disruptions to learning, especially with national exams drawing near.