The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has rolled out new guidelines to regulate teacher transfers across Kenya’s 32,000 public schools, focusing on fairness, medical considerations, and uninterrupted learning.
Appearing before the Senate Education Committee, TSC Director of Staffing Antonina Lentoijoni said transfers will now be determined by available vacancies, equitable staffing, and verified medical grounds.
“Teachers may also seek transfers on medical grounds, but applications must be backed by reports from registered doctors and validated by school heads and county or sub-county directors,” she explained.
Lentoijoni noted that some teachers in hardship areas such as Mandera have previously used questionable medical records to secure transfers, a loophole the new framework seeks to seal.
Committee chairperson Betty Montet highlighted the importance of a recent retreat in Mombasa, which addressed teacher recruitment, staffing policies, and the transfer framework.
The reforms coincide with the launch of a digital e-transfer module aimed at boosting transparency and efficiency. Acting TSC CEO Evaleen Mitei said the system features automated matching, swap functionalities, mandatory service tenure, and real-time notifications.
“Teachers can now apply for transfers or swaps digitally. While the five-year service rule remains, applications may be considered after three years under exceptional circumstances,” Mitei said.
