- Schools that hosted the June ICT training have raised concerns over delayed reimbursement of venue-related costs owed to CSOs.
- A North Rift principal has declined to receive a CSO amid unresolved payment disputes linked to the training programme.
- Schools have awaited clarification from the ICT Ministry, KDEAP and TSC on timelines for settling outstanding reimbursements for TOTs and hosting schools.
Some schools that hosted the June ICT training have raised concerns over delayed reimbursement, with reports indicating that Community Service Officers (CSOs) involved in coordinating the programme have faced difficulties settling venue-related costs.
During the June ICT training, about 62,000 teachers were trained across the country through an initiative by the ICT Ministry and the Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project (KDEAP), in collaboration with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The training was conducted in various venues across the country, with CSOs playing a key role in planning and coordinating the training venues.
So far, some teachers have reportedly received Sh2,400 as reimbursement, while some Tutors of Teachers (TOTs) have not yet received their payments. The delays have raised concerns among participants and other stakeholders who incurred expenses during the training exercise.
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In one county in the North Rift region, a CSO reportedly faced a setback when a school principal declined to receive the CSO over concerns surrounding delayed reimbursement. The incident has highlighted challenges that can arise when schools incur costs while hosting large-scale training programmes, and payments are not made on time.
CSOs were responsible for planning and coordinating the venues where the training sessions took place, including identifying suitable schools and making arrangements for the sessions involving teachers and trainers. With approximately 62,000 teachers participating nationally, the June exercise required coordination among the ICT Ministry, KDEAP, TSC, CSOs, schools and other stakeholders.
The reported delays in reimbursement have consequently become a concern for some of those involved in the programme. Schools that provided venues and individuals who incurred expenses are awaiting settlement, while some teachers have already received Sh2,400. The situation in the North Rift, where a school principal reportedly declined to receive a CSO over the delayed reimbursement issue, underscores the importance of clear communication and timely settlement of expenses incurred during such programmes.
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The June training was aimed at strengthening teachers’ digital skills and supporting the integration of ICT in education. Stakeholders now await clarification on the status and timelines for outstanding reimbursements, particularly for TOTs and schools that hosted the training. Further clarification from the relevant authorities would help establish the reimbursement arrangements and when outstanding payments are expected to be settled.
By Our Reporter
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