Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) could soon operate independently if new proposals by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) are approved. The Commission wants Grades 7, 8 and 9 to have their own leadership and management structures, separate from primary schools.
The proposal has sparked debate among teachers, Members of Parliament (MPs) and education experts. Many say the current system has caused confusion and slowed the smooth rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
How Junior Secondary is currently managed
When Kenya shifted from the 8-4-4 system to CBC, Junior Secondary education was introduced to cover Grades 7 to 9. However, these classes were placed within primary schools and put under the authority of primary school head teachers.
At the time, this arrangement was described as temporary. It was meant to make the transition to the new system easier.
But concerns have grown. Junior secondary teachers say they struggle with decision-making, access to resources and career growth because they report to primary school heads. Education experts say junior secondary students have different academic needs from primary learners, making shared leadership difficult.
What TSC wants to change
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) now wants to formally separate junior secondary from primary school management.
Under the proposal, Junior Secondary Schools would have their own principals and deputy principals. They would also have separate administrative units and clear reporting structures. The Commission is also calling for specific budget allocations to support the new leadership positions.
READ ALSO:
Rongo University chancellor hosts teachers’ retreat to reward academic excellence
TSC says the goal is to improve accountability, supervision and service delivery. According to the Commission, the current system has created delays and administrative challenges that could affect student performance.
Cost and staffing concerns
The proposed changes would require significant funding. Thousands of principals and deputy principals may need to be hired or reassigned across the country. Additional leadership roles could also be created.
Schools may need more office space, training programmes and salary adjustments to support the new structure.
Some Members of Parliament (MPs) have questioned whether the National Treasury is ready to provide enough money for the reforms. Lawmakers have also warned against leaving school leaders in acting positions for too long.
Education analysts caution that without proper planning, the changes could put pressure on the education budget. Supporters, however, argue that strong leadership now will help avoid bigger problems in the future.
Pressure from teachers’ Unions
Teachers’ Unions have been pushing for these changes for months. Many junior secondary teachers say they lack clear career paths and proper recognition under the current system.
Some have held demonstrations in different counties, calling for independence and better working conditions.
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has supported the push for reform. The Kenya Junior School Teachers Association (KeJUSTA) has also insisted that junior secondary be treated as a separate level of education.
Union leaders say autonomy would boost morale and recognise junior secondary teachers as post-primary educators.
Mixed reactions from stakeholders
Supporters believe independent leadership will bring clearer accountability and better resource management. They argue that dedicated principals will focus on the specific needs of junior secondary students.
Education experts note that in many countries, middle-level schooling operates independently to help students transition from primary to senior secondary education.
However, critics warn that creating separate leadership could increase bureaucracy. Smaller rural schools may struggle to support additional administrators. There are also concerns about whether existing facilities can accommodate new offices.
Some parents have questioned whether the changes could lead to higher school levies, even though the government maintains that basic education remains free. Others say legal changes may be needed to fully implement the reforms.
Parliament to review proposal
The National Assembly Committee on Education is expected to review the proposal before any final decision is made.
Lawmakers will examine the financial, policy and operational impact of the changes. They have stressed the need for transparency and careful planning.
The debate comes as Kenya continues to adjust to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which has faced challenges such as limited infrastructure and teacher shortages.
A key moment for education reform
The proposal to grant autonomy to Junior Secondary Schools marks an important step in Kenya’s education reform journey.
For teachers, it offers hope for better recognition and clearer career growth. For policymakers, it presents a test of how well the CBC transition can be managed.
If approved and properly funded, the reforms could change how junior secondary education is run across the country for years to come.
By Benedict Aoya
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
