The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has unveiled a proposal aimed at ending the persistent conflicts between primary school head teachers and tutors deployed to junior schools. The disputes began in 2023 after the government merged primary schools with the junior secondary section to form what are now known as comprehensive schools.
Under the current system, primary head teachers double up as principals, exercising authority over both levels. Junior school teachers, however, feel sidelined and argue that the arrangement compromises their career growth. To address these concerns, TSC has suggested a new administrative model that introduces principals as the overall heads, supported by two deputies—one each for the primary and junior sections.
Speaking during a Senate Education Committee session, Director of Staffing Antonina Lentoijoni admitted the transition has been problematic. She observed that junior school teachers often disregard instructions from head teachers, particularly when the heads are P1-trained. According to her, the arrangement remains temporary until the necessary legal framework is enacted to recognise comprehensive schools.
The matter has also reached the political arena. During a recent meeting with thousands of teachers at State House, President William Ruto directed Education CS Julius Ogamba to expedite pending Bills in Parliament to strengthen competency-based education and settle disputes surrounding junior school administration.
Meanwhile, the commission continues to grapple with a severe teacher shortage in junior schools. Ms Lentoijoni revealed that the current shortfall stands at 72,442 tutors. To mitigate this, TSC deployed 14,000 primary school teachers who met secondary-level teaching qualifications to the junior section. Acting CEO Eveleen Mitei noted that this was possible because of surplus staff in primary schools, ensuring stability in the lower levels.
With unions demanding autonomy, a teacher deficit to manage, and legal reforms still in limbo, the future of comprehensive schools remains uncertain. However, TSC insists that once the new structure is adopted, leadership conflicts will ease, paving the way for smoother learning outcomes.
