Kakamega County has emerged as the biggest beneficiary in the recent teacher promotion reallocations by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), following the removal of 1,864 teachers who were promoted without meeting the required three years in one grade.
In a report submitted to the National Assembly’s Education Committee on May 22, 2025, TSC revealed that Kakamega gained 91 additional promotions, raising its total from 651 to 748. This increase was the highest in the country, surpassing other counties, such as Kitui (+85), Machakos (+82), and Nakuru (+76).
The reallocation was triggered by a directive from the committee to withdraw promotions from teachers who had not served for a minimum of three years in their current grade. This decision hit Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) counties hardest, with Lamu losing 204 slots, Isiolo 196, and Mandera 191.
“The Commission had no option but to comply with the resolution of the Education Committee,” said TSC CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia in the report. “We redistributed the slots proportionately based on the number of applicants interviewed per county.”
Kakamega stood out not just for the number of promotions received but also for its high application rate, with 6,986 teachers interviewed—the highest among all 47 counties. According to TSC, the decision prioritised teachers who had served in one grade for over seven years and were nearing retirement.
READ ALSO:
KESSHA decries inconsistent amounts, delay release of capitation to schools
But in ASAL regions, frustration is mounting. Many acting principals and deputies claim they continue to work without official recognition or compensation despite their long years of service.
TSC has promised to develop and publicise new promotion guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency. “We will undertake public participation and consult all key stakeholders before implementing the new criteria,” said Dr Macharia.
By Joseph Mambili
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
