The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has defended the ongoing transfer of junior school teachers in Nairobi, saying the exercise aims to address staffing shortages and subject-combination mismatches across schools.
In a letter dated May 18, 2026 and addressed to KUPPET Secretary General Akelo M. T. Misori, the Commission said the transfers are part of a nationwide teacher-balancing exercise aimed at achieving equitable distribution of teachers.
The letter, referenced “CS/TSC/KUPPET/VOL.V/17,” was signed by Acting Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei, MBS.
TSC stated that the clarification followed concerns raised by KUPPET in a letter dated May 14, 2026 regarding the transfer of junior school teachers in Nairobi.
“Reference is made to your letter Ref: KUPPET/TSC/13/2026 dated 14th May, 2026 on the above subject,” the letter reads.
The Commission explained that “it is currently undertaking a teacher balancing exercise across the country aimed at addressing teacher shortages and subject combination mismatches, including Junior Schools.”
According to TSC, “the exercise seeks to ensure optimal and equitable utilization of teachers based on the staffing needs of institutions.”
The Commission acknowledged that some teachers could face personal difficulties arising from the transfers but maintained that the exercise would continue.
“Nevertheless, the Commission remains sensitive to individual circumstances affecting teachers,” the letter states.
TSC further noted that “any teacher among those listed who may have a unique challenge arising from the transfer may lodge an appeal through the TSC Regional Director, Nairobi.”
According to the Commission, the appeals will be considered “by the relevant Transfer Committee in line with the laid down procedures.”
The Commission directed affected teachers to report to their new stations even as their appeals are being reviewed.
“In the meantime, the affected teachers are required to report to their respective stations as they await the decision of the Commission on their appeals,” the letter states.
TSC also praised the teachers’ union for continued engagement on matters affecting educators.
“The Commission appreciates the continued engagement and cooperation of the Union on matters affecting teachers and remains committed to fair and efficient management of the teaching service,” the statement added.
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The transfer debate comes amid ongoing reforms in the education sector following the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which has significantly affected staffing patterns in junior schools across the country.
By Joseph Mambili
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