The new system, announced by Acting TSC Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei, is set to transform the teaching profession by introducing compulsory continuous training aimed at improving competence and aligning educators with modern learning demands.
Speaking during the 49th Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) Annual Conference in Mombasa on Thursday, Mitei said the reforms will be anchored on the Teacher Professional Development (TPD) programme, which every teacher must complete before qualifying for licence renewal.
“We are saying, just like all other professions, the teaching service must be licensed. That five-year TPD will lead to the renewal of your teaching licence,” Mitei stated.
The move is expected to strengthen the implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum by ensuring teachers remain updated with emerging teaching methods and skills.
In a major relief to educators, Mitei confirmed that the new TPD programme will be offered free of charge, addressing concerns that the training could impose financial pressure on teachers.
“I think the thing that teachers want to hear is that it is free. We will not charge any money for the Teacher Professional Development programme that is coming,” she said.
Most of the training will be conducted online, with only a few face-to-face sessions, making the programme more accessible to teachers across the country.
Mitei also revealed that the licensing system will boost international opportunities for Kenyan teachers by providing globally recognised professional credentials.
Additionally, TSC is developing a new Learning Management System that will allow teachers to access training modules, track progress, and complete their professional development seamlessly as the commission prepares for the nationwide rollout.