Teachers and public servants living with specific forms of disability are now entitled to a Ksh 20,000 monthly Personal Guide Allowance, following a directive by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and its implementation by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
In a circular, TSC confirmed that the allowance took effect last year and applies to employees with physical and sensory disabilities requiring daily assistance. The allowance is now integrated into the monthly pay for eligible individuals.
The covered disabilities include deafness, blindness, low vision (with a visual acuity of 6/60 or lower, as reported by an ophthalmologist), and physical disabilities that require the use of a wheelchair, pair of crutches, a walking aid that requires both hands or a walking frame.
Yet despite the policy being officially communicated to the major teachers’ unions — the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), and the Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET) — the number of teachers applying for the allowance has remained surprisingly low.
According to the TSC circular signed by outgoing CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia, the application procedure is guided by the Code of Regulations for Teachers (2015) and the Human Resource Processes and Procedures Manual (2018). Applicants must present the required medical certification depending on the type of disability.
READ ALSO:
“Twasema Asante”: Nancy Macharia officially hands over TSC leadership in moving farewell
The effective date for payment of the additional areas of disability is 1st February 2024. The procedure for applying for the allowance remains as provided in existing TSC guidelines,” reads the official circular.
Teachers living with disability have welcomed the policy as a timely intervention that supports their daily mobility and well-being.
Union officials and education leaders have praised the policy’s alignment with broader inclusion goals under the public service charter and Kenya’s commitment to disability rights.
The allowance is expected to alleviate mobility-related challenges and improve the retention and performance of teachers with disabilities nationwide.
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
