The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has recently confirmed the appointments of two senior directors at its Secretariat headquarters, after they had served in acting capacities for an extended period. This move marks a significant step in strengthening the leadership within the commission, ensuring stability and continuity in its operations.
Confirmed Appointments
Antonina Lentoijoni, who had been serving as the acting Staffing Director for several years, has now been confirmed in the position. Lentoijoni steps into a role that has been vacant since the departure of Rita Wahome, who left the service over two years ago. Lentoijoni’s confirmation is seen as a well-deserved recognition of her years of dedication and expertise in managing staffing within the commission.
In a parallel development, Evelyn Mitei, another long-serving TSC staffer, has also been confirmed in her role. Mitei, who had been the acting Field Service Director, has now been officially appointed as the Director in charge of Teacher Discipline Management. This new role reflects the changes adopted in the Commission’s Career Progression Guidelines for Secretariat Staff, which were introduced in November of last year.
Mitei had been serving in the acting capacity following the retirement of Mary Rotich, who previously held the position at Field Services. The renaming of the position to Teacher Discipline Management aligns with the TSC’s broader strategic objectives, emphasizing the importance of effective management of teacher discipline in maintaining the integrity and standards of the teaching profession in Kenya.
Human Resource Management and Development Re-advertised
While these confirmations bring a degree of stability to the TSC’s leadership, the Commission has faced challenges in filling the critical position of Director for Human Resource Management and Development. Despite conducting rigorous interviews and a thorough selection process, the Commission did not find a suitable candidate when the position was initially advertised.
As a result, the TSC has decided to re-advertise the position, signaling the importance of finding the right individual to lead this key department. The Director of Human Resource Management and Development plays a crucial role in overseeing the recruitment, training, and development of teachers across the country—a responsibility that is central to the TSC’s mission.
In the interim, Kennedy Marangu, who has been serving as the Deputy Director at the Administration Department, has been appointed as the acting Director for Human Resource Management and Development. Marangu was one of the candidates shortlisted for the position during the previous selection process, indicating his strong credentials and potential suitability for the role.
Implications for TSC’s Operations
The confirmation of Lentoijoni and Mitei in their respective roles is likely to bring much-needed stability to the TSC’s operations, particularly in the areas of staffing and teacher discipline. Their extensive experience within the Commission means they are well-positioned to continue driving key initiatives and ensuring that the TSC meets its objectives.
However, the ongoing search for a permanent Director of Human Resource Management and Development underscores the challenges the TSC faces in finding the right leadership to guide its strategic HR functions. The re-advertisement of this position suggests that the Commission is committed to a thorough and diligent process to secure the best candidate for this critical role.
As the TSC continues to navigate these leadership transitions, the focus remains on ensuring that the Commission can effectively manage the teaching workforce in Kenya, maintaining high standards and supporting the professional development of teachers nationwide. The outcome of the re-advertised HR Director position will be closely watched, as it will play a significant role in shaping the future direction of the Commission.
