The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has formally announced new measures to support lactating mothers returning to work after maternity leave.
Through Circular No. 13/2025, the Commission has introduced a provision allowing new mothers to take two hours off duty daily for two months following their resumption of duty.
The circular, authored and signed by Evaleen Mitei, the TSC Secretary/CEO, was addressed to all teachers in the country.
In her directive, Mitei emphasized the Commission’s commitment to teacher welfare, saying that “lactating mothers be given permission for 2 hours daily for a period of two months immediately following resumption of duty.”
This, she said, reflects the TSC’s recognition of the challenges faced by female teachers as they balance professional duties with the responsibility of nurturing newborns.
TSC further clarified that the directive is meant to ease the transition back to work after maternity leave, explaining: “The provision of a two hours daily permission is intended to facilitate a smooth transition to mothers resuming duties after Maternity Leave, while ensuring they are able to attend to the needs of their newborns.”
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At the same time, the circular provided clear guidelines on how the arrangement would work at the institutional level. It directed that “the timing of the daily permission can be adjusted in consultation with the Head of Institution, ensuring minimal disruption of curriculum delivery.”
This flexibility, according to the Commission, is meant to ensure that students continue to receive lessons without undue interruption.
Teachers seeking to enjoy this benefit must follow due process. The Commission was categorical that “permission must be sought in writing and formally approved by the Head of Institution.”
This formal procedure ensures accountability and proper record-keeping.
TSC also placed a supervisory role on school administrators, noting that “Heads of Institutions who require such permission must apply to the Sub-County Directors for approval.”
By involving Sub-County Directors, the Commission aims to strengthen oversight and ensure the policy is uniformly applied across schools.
The Commission also made it clear that the permission is not indefinite, stressing that “this provision is applicable only for a two-month period from the date of resumption from Maternity Leave.” After this period, normal working hours will resume.
By introducing this directive, TSC has marked what it calls a crucial milestone in teacher management. The circular underscores a dual priority: safeguarding the health and well-being of teachers and their infants, while at the same time ensuring continuity in curriculum delivery.
By Joseph Mambili
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