National Assembly Orders TSC to Release Withheld Student Certificates

The National Assembly Committee on Education has directed the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to issue a circular requiring head teachers to release all school-leaving certificates previously withheld from students over unpaid fees, stressing that the practice violates government policy.

During a meeting on the 2026 Budget Policy Statement with TSC Acting CEO Evelyn Mitei, Committee Chair Julius Melly said it was unacceptable for learners to be denied certificates when the government had already paid examination fees.

“Teachers must not hold certificates hostage. The Ministry already issued a circular banning that practice. We direct TSC to make a public announcement reminding all teachers that withholding certificates is illegal,” Melly said.

Members of the Committee pressed the Commission to implement the directive urgently, noting that thousands of students nationwide have been unable to collect their certificates, limiting access to jobs and further education.

Jerusha Momanyi added, “It goes against labour and education laws to deny a child their certificate for school fees arrears.”

In response, Mitei acknowledged the concern and assured the Committee that TSC would issue the directive to all schools through county education offices.

She emphasized that the Commission remains committed to compliance and accountability within the teaching service.

The Committee also questioned TSC on delays in teacher promotions, unequal distribution of projects, and the integration of teachers into the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover.

Mitei said TSC had received Sh16.5 billion for the scheme against a requirement of Sh26.5 billion, creating a Sh10 billion shortfall.

“We are working with SHA to ensure all teachers are onboarded and sensitized to access services,” she added.

According to the Budget Policy Statement, TSC’s total proposed allocation for the 2026/27 financial year is Sh422.96 billion. This includes recruitment of 16,000 new teachers and conversion of 20,000 interns to permanent and pensionable terms.