The teacher internship program introduced by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has increasingly become a pathway to permanent and pensionable employment. The 2025/2026 recruitment guidelines reaffirm that interns who successfully serve their term may be prioritized in future employment opportunities.
According to the circular, teachers who have previously served under the internship program or were employed on permanent terms but exited service (other than on disciplinary grounds) remain eligible for fresh engagement. This recognition opens a second chance for many teachers still seeking permanent employment.
The internship program not only provides valuable classroom experience but also allows interns to demonstrate competence and commitment. Many see it as the most reliable stepping stone to securing a long-term teaching career.
With 24,000 internship slots announced for the current financial year, thousands of young graduates will benefit from this opportunity. Education experts argue that the program has dual benefits: addressing teacher shortages while empowering graduates to build their professional journey.
For many aspiring teachers, the internship program represents hope — a crucial bridge between training institutions and permanent employment within Kenya’s education system.