Through a gazette notice dated January 2, 2026, TSC Chief Executive Officer Eveleen Mitei made it clear that any person found teaching or assisting in teaching without being registered under the TSC Act is liable to a prison term of up to two years, a fine of Ksh100,000, or both.
“The TSC Act provides that any person who, not being a teacher under the Act, teaches or assists in teaching in any school shall be liable to a fine of not less than one hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years,” Mitei said.
The warning extends beyond individual teachers. Schools and other learning institutions that employ unregistered personnel also face penalties under the law.
Mitei cautioned that such institutions risk fines and potential legal action if they fail to comply with the registration requirements.
The TSC emphasized that registration is mandatory for all teaching personnel in Kenya.
The Commission said the directive is aimed at safeguarding education standards, ensuring that learners are taught by qualified professionals, and maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the directive, noting that it could curb cases of substandard teaching and strengthen professionalism within the sector.
However, some private schools and learning centers may face challenges adapting to the enforcement measures, particularly if they have previously employed unregistered staff.
The Commission has urged all practicing teachers to verify their registration status and ensure full compliance with the law.
TSC officials said that monitoring and inspections across schools nationwide would be intensified, and warned that ignorance of the law would not be accepted as a defense.
This latest move underscores the Commission’s determination to professionalize teaching in Kenya and reinforces the message that only duly registered educators are permitted to instruct learners.
The TSC has called on both teachers and institutions to act promptly to avoid penalties and uphold the standards of the education system.