Big Win for Intern Teachers as TSC Plans Permanent Jobs for 20,000 in New Deal

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced that 20,000 intern teachers will move into Permanent and Pensionable terms in the 2026/27 financial year, giving hope to thousands awaiting absorption.

The announcement came during a meeting with the Departmental Committee on Education, chaired by Julius Melly, where TSC Acting CEO Eveleen Mitei defended the commission’s budget proposals at Bunge Towers on May 13, 2026.

The move emerged during discussions between the committee and TSC officials as lawmakers reviewed the FY 2026/27 annual estimates of expenditure.

“The interns form part of a larger group of 44,000 teachers currently serving under internship terms,” Mitei told the committee.

“Only teachers who complete the two-year internship will qualify for confirmation, which will end in January 2027,” she added.

She further explained that the Commission cannot recruit new permanent teachers while interns remain in service. She said policy requires completion of the internship cycle before absorption.

Also Read: TSC Proposes Lowering Teacher Training Entry Grade From C+

TSC Concerns Over Promotions and Teacher Welfare

The committee raised concerns over delayed promotions and teacher welfare. Members also flagged reports of principals who allegedly withheld teachers’ documents.

In response, members asked the Commission to explain how it will ensure fairness in promotions across counties.

They also urged faster implementation of teacher development programmes.

Lawmakers further questioned compensation gaps under the Work Injury Benefit Act (WIBA), after noting that funding remains incomplete.

The Teachers Service Commission acknowledged the gap. It said it requested WIBA compensation funding, but the budget did not approve it in the current cycle.

Also Read: TSC Ordered to Discipline Alliance Girls Principal for Charging Double the Approved Fee

Recruitment and Promotion Targets

The Commission reported that it has recruited more than 100,000 teachers in the last three years, supported by increased government funding.

It also said about 30,000 teachers could receive promotions this year, depending on retirements and staff exits.

The committee urged TSC to speed up promotions. It pointed to the KES 2 billion allocated for teacher advancement programmes.

Finally, the chairperson directed the Commission to submit the Teachers’ Progression Guidelines for review.

He said the document will help the committee assess gaps and strengthen transparency in teacher management.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

The Departmental Committee on Education meets with Teachers Service Commission (TSC) officials at Bunge Towers on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, to discuss teacher promotions and the confirmation of 20,000 interns. PHOTO/ Parliament of Kenya FB