Kimilili constituency Member of Parliament (MP) Didmus Barasa has proposed key amendments to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act, 2012, aimed at making the commission more inclusive and representative of all education stakeholders.
Barasa in a statement shared via his official social media accounts on Monday, February 24, 2025, said he had initiated the process to repeal the TSC Act to facilitate teacher representation on the commission that is similar to the arrangements in place for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the Parliamentary Service Commission.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) lawmaker further says the effort also aims to optimize resource allocation by transitioning the commission from a full-time to a part-time operational model.
“I have initiated the process to repeal the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act to facilitate teacher representation on the Commission, similar to the arrangements in place for the Judicial Service Commission and the Parliamentary Service Commission. Additionally, this effort aims to optimize resource allocation by transitioning the Commission from a full-time to a part-time operational model. Maintaining both a dedicated Secretariat and a fully engaged Commission is not sustainable; therefore, a streamlined approach is essential for effective governance,” the MP wrote on X.
I have initiated the process to repeal the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act to facilitate teacher representation on the Commission, similar to the arrangements in place for the Judicial Service Commission and the Parliamentary Service Commission.
Additionally, this effort… pic.twitter.com/SPQmpwwoaG
— Didmus Wekesa Barasa Mutua (@DidmusWaBarasa) February 24, 2025
Barasa’s proposals
In a letter dated February 24, 2025, and addressed to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Barasa is advocating for the inclusion of representatives from primary schools, secondary schools, and post-secondary institutions within the TSC.
According to him, these groups play a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s education system, yet they lack direct representation in the commission’s decision-making processes.
He proposes that a provision allowing primary school teachers to nominate one representative from among their ranks to sit on the Commission should be intriduced.
He also wants secondary school teachers allowed to elect a representative to join the Commission.
Post-secondary institutions
Moreover, the MP says post-secondary institutions should be enabled to nominate a representative to serve as a commissioner, ensuring their unique interests and contributions to education are reflected in decision-making.
“These amendments seek to strengthen the Commission by ensuring all key stakeholders in the education sector have a voice in shaping teacher policies and management. The goal is to build a more representative, dynamic, and effective TSC that reflects the needs of those it serves. I respectfully request your consideration of this proposal for further discussion and legislative,” Barasa says in his letter to Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
