More than 20,000 intern teachers currently serving in public schools have petitioned Parliament and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to convert their contracts to permanent and pensionable terms.
In the petition submitted this week, the teachers expressed concern that despite working full-time in classrooms and supporting the national education system, they continue to serve on temporary terms without job security, medical cover, or pension benefits. Their contracts are expected to expire in December 2025.
The petitioners argued that serving as interns for periods exceeding 12 months amounts to unfair labour practice and negatively affects morale, welfare and long-term planning for educators already carrying full responsibilities in schools.
“We respectfully request that the government and TSC allocate funds in the supplementary budget to convert all serving intern teachers to permanent and pensionable terms,” the petition reads.
READ ALSO:
They further asked Parliament to ensure budgetary allocation for their absorption and requested TSC to establish a clear timeline and transparent process for their conversion, saying the uncertainty threatens stability in schoolsconstitutes an unfair labour practice and negatively affects morale, welfare,, particularly those already experiencing acute teacher shortages.
The teachers also want a policy guarantee that no intern teacher should serve beyond one year without being absorbed, arguing that continued internship undermines motivation and performance in the sector.
The group commended the government’s ongoing efforts toward expanding staffing in public schools but urged swift action to protect thousands of young teachers currently sustaining learning in classrooms across the country.
They urged authorities to “recognize the role and contribution of intern teachers in strengthening Kenya’s education system and ensuring continuity in teaching and learning.”
By our reporter
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
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
