Education CS Machogu Criticizes TSC’s Teacher Transfers Amid School Attack
In response to an attack on the principal of St Gabriel Isongo Secondary School in Kakamega County, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) decided to transfer all teachers from the institution, thereby disrupting the learning process.
The incident unfolded when villagers protested the perceived poor performance of candidates in the recently released Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, leading to the forceful removal of the school principal.
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Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu criticized the TSC for the mass transfer, emphasizing that it infringed upon the learners’ right to basic education, a right protected by the Constitution.
While launching the 2024 Elimu Scholarship Programme at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, Mr. Machogu expressed his disagreement with the decision, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the children’s right to education in any actions taken regarding institutions of basic education.
Addressing the issue of attacks on teachers and invasions of schools, Mr. Machogu acknowledged the unfortunate nature of such incidents. He advocated for a careful, systematic, and consultative approach to address these challenges without compromising the right to education for innocent children.
Stressing the significance of legal actions, he stated, “Those concerned should be taken to court,” emphasizing the importance of keeping registered schools operational.
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As the head of the ministry and schools, Mr. Machogu disclosed that he had instructed ministry field officers to collaborate with TSC representatives in conducting investigations. He directed the school’s management to coordinate with local education officials and the TSC to resume normal operations within a week.
In addition, Mr. Machogu called on politicians to refrain from escalating conflicts in schools, cautioning against allowing disruptive political figures into educational institutions.
He highlighted the need for a conducive learning environment and discouraged the involvement of individuals who may incite chaos.
The Education CS specifically mentioned an incident involving Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, captured on video addressing parents and pupils at the school, which ended in chaos.
In response to concerns raised by the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers about the safety of teachers in violent schools, Mr. Machogu had previously instructed the TSC to withdraw teachers from such environments. The goal is to mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of teachers amid attacks by certain members of the community.
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Education CS Machogu Criticizes TSC’s Teacher Transfers Amid School Attack