The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has issued a stern warning to school heads regarding the adherence to safety standards within their institutions. In a circular dated September 13, 2024, TSC CEO Nancy Macharia highlighted that some school heads have neglected to implement the provisions of the Safety Standards Manual for Schools, which is crucial for the welfare of learners.
Macharia pointed out that this oversight contradicts the Code of Regulations for Teachers and the Code of Conduct and Ethics. She emphasized that the lax enforcement of administrative circulars issued by the Government is unacceptable. As a result, she has directed school heads to strictly enforce all provisions of the manual and related circulars, and to enhance supervision to quickly detect any cases of learner indiscipline or unrest.
“The Commission shall take firm disciplinary action against those found to have flouted the guidelines stipulated in the Manual, in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Regulations for Teachers and the Code of Conduct and Ethics,” Macharia stated.
Furthermore, she instructed school heads to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to investigate cases of arson and indiscipline, aiming to recommend appropriate administrative and legal actions against the perpetrators. Heads of schools are also required to coordinate with Ministry of Education field officers and National Government Administration Officers to maintain safety standards.
“To this end, together with the Deputy Heads of Institution and Senior Masters in charge of boarding programmes, you are required to be vigilant and remain in school at all times to ensure learners’ safety,” Macharia added.
This warning from the TSC follows a tragic incident at Endarasha Hillside Academy, where a dormitory fire resulted in the deaths of 21 male pupils. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
