TSC Might Lose Internship Teachers Next Year
Educators play a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s educational landscape. In recent times, the educational sphere in our country has undergone significant changes, particularly with the introduction of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) into primary schools, which included the incorporation of junior secondary school levels.
However, this transformation has not been without its challenges, most notably, a shortage of qualified teachers in many public schools.
To address this scarcity, the government, through the Teachers Service Commission, took proactive steps earlier this year. They embarked on a recruitment drive, employing 8,000 teachers through the Post-Primary Teacher Training Program (PNP) and an additional 15,000 teachers under internship programs. These efforts aimed to alleviate the teacher shortage crisis, and many of these newly hired educators began their duties in February, with more joining in August.
It’s worth noting that these intern teachers are currently working on contractual terms, with agreements typically lasting for at least a year.
However, this arrangement may evolve in the coming months. There is a growing sentiment among these teachers that they might resort to industrial action if their concerns are not adequately addressed by their employer, the Teachers Service Commission.
Some of the pressing issues these educators seek resolution for include inadequate compensation, subpar working conditions, and the burden of taxation on their meager salaries.
They argue that the government should consider offering them permanent positions or raising their stipends, especially in light of the challenging economic conditions prevailing in our country.
Majority of the Teachers are decrying deductions made by the commission including House Levy, NSSF and even NHIF from the meagre stipend.
The JSS pioneers, ‘Moguls’ are wondering why the commission did not factor them during the 7-10% Salary Increment for teachers but when it comes to deductions, they are counted like any other teacher.
These teachers have gone through so many hurdles since the onset of the new curriculum. Schools are grappling with inadequate teachers, lack of enough facilities and lack of clear guidelines governing this new curriculum.
In light of these developments, it is imperative that the government takes swift action to address these concerns before they escalate further. The dedication and commitment of our teachers are vital to the success of our education system, and addressing their grievances is essential to ensuring the continued provision of quality education to our students.
TSC Might Lose Internship Teachers Next Year
