Until recently, Evaleen Jesang Mitei was a relatively unknown name outside the walls of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). But all that changed on Tuesday when she was thrust into the national spotlight as the interim Chief Executive Officer, following the exit of long-serving CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia.
Mitei takes the reins at a critical juncture for theission, which is under immense pressure to implement long-overdue education reforms, resolve thorny issues around teacher promotions, and navigate tense labor relations with teachers’ unions.
Her appointment signals a shift toward steady, experienced leadership at a time when the education sector demands urgent attention.
With a career spanning over three decades, Mitei brings to the table a wealth of experience in Kenya’s education system. She began her professional journey in 1994 as a graduate teacher at Samoei Secondary School in Nandi County.
Her leadership potential was recognized early on, as she also served as the acting deputy head teacher at the same institution. Over the years, she has steadily climbed the ranks within the TSC, earning a reputation as a diligent, committed, and principled professional.
Insiders say Mitei’s deep understanding of the internal workings of the TSC makes her uniquely qualified to take on the role. She has been part of the system long enough to grasp its challenges and complexities, but also progressive enough to embrace reform and innovation.
Her leadership is expected to inject a renewed sense of direction and stability to a Commission that has, in recent months, come under intense scrutiny from both teachers and the public.
The education sector has widely welcomed her appointment, viewing it as a positive move that rewards merit and institutional knowledge. As Mitei steps into this demanding role, all eyes are on her to see whether she can steer the Commission toward a more responsive and effective future for Kenya’s educators.
