Uasin Gishu, Kenya – The National Assembly Budget and Appropriation Committee has announced plans to convert 26,000 intern teachers to Permanent and Pensionable terms in the 2024/25 financial year.

According to Kenya News Agency, Ndindi Nyoro, this initiative is part of a broader government effort to address the teacher shortage in public schools across Kenya, in line with the 100 percent transition policy.

Nyoro disclosed that the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is also set to recruit an additional 20,000 intern teachers during the next financial year, with a budget allocation of Sh26.3 billion earmarked for these purposes. The announcement came during a church fundraiser in Kesses Sub County, Uasin Gishu County, where Nyoro emphasized the Kenya Kwanza government’s commitment to enhancing the education sector.

“All current intern teachers will be confirmed on Permanent and Pensionable employment, fulfilling a promise made by President William Ruto, with an additional 20,000 interns to be recruited,” Nyoro stated, highlighting the government’s dedication to ensuring equal employment opportunities and development across all regions, irrespective of political affiliations.

The event saw the attendance of various leaders, including MPs Oscar Sudi, Johana Ngeno, Josses Lelmengit, Joseph Wainana, Peter Salasya, and David Kiplagat, alongside Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang, Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, and Principal Secretary for Immigration Julius Bittock. Together, they refuted claims of internal divisions within the Kenya Kwanza party, particularly among leaders from the Mt. Kenya region, asserting unity under Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

This move to regularize intern teachers and the planned recruitment drive represents a significant step toward addressing the educational needs of the nation and ensuring that all children have access to quality teaching resources.