TSC Secures Ksh 8.4 Billion to Implement Second Phase of 2025–2029 CBA as Major Promotion Reforms Promise Relief for Teachers

A major transformation could soon be underway in Kenya’s education sector after the Teachers Service Commission secured Ksh 8.4 billion to facilitate the implementation of the second phase of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for teachers.

The announcement comes at a time when thousands of teachers across the country have been demanding better salaries, faster promotions, and an end to the long-standing stagnation that has affected many educators for years.

The Commission, currently under Acting CEO Evelyn Mitei, has also intensified efforts to secure an additional Ksh 8.4 billion in order to support a Presidential proposal aimed at reducing the CBA implementation period from four years to three years.

If approved, the proposal would significantly accelerate salary increments and benefits for teachers, offering quicker financial relief amid the rising cost of living and growing economic pressure facing public servants.

Fresh Hope for Teachers Across Kenya

For many teachers, the latest announcement represents more than just another policy update — it signals the possibility of real change after years of frustration over delayed promotions, slow salary growth, and limited career advancement opportunities.

Over the years, teachers have repeatedly expressed concerns over the existing Career Progression Guidelines (CPG), which many accused of unfairly trapping educators in the same job groups for decades despite experience, dedication, and additional qualifications.

The issue has remained one of the most controversial topics within the education sector, with teachers’ unions and education stakeholders consistently pushing for reforms that recognize performance, experience, and professional growth.

Now, the Commission says those concerns are finally being addressed.

End of the Controversial Career Progression Guidelines

Appearing before the Parliamentary Education Committee, Acting CEO Evelyn Mitei revealed that the current Career Progression Guidelines will officially cease to apply beginning July 1st.

According to Ms. Mitei, the Commission is in the final stages of preparing a new promotion framework that is expected to take effect immediately after next month.

The proposed changes are expected to completely restructure how teachers progress within the profession and could become one of the biggest reforms in the history of teacher management in Kenya.

The Acting CEO assured lawmakers that the new guidelines are designed to eliminate stagnation and create a more predictable and fair promotion pathway for teachers at all levels.

New Levels System to Speed Up Promotions

Sources familiar with the ongoing reforms indicate that teachers will now be classified under Levels 1–6 under the proposed structure.

The new system is expected to dramatically shorten the time teachers spend waiting for promotions.

Under the current framework, some teachers take as long as 36 years to rise to the highest job group — a situation that has demoralized many educators and slowed professional growth within the sector.

However, under the proposed reforms, teachers could now reach the highest job group within just 18 years.

This would effectively cut the waiting period by half and create a more dynamic and motivating career structure for teachers across the country.

Education stakeholders believe the reforms could help restore confidence in the teaching profession, especially among younger teachers who have often felt discouraged by the slow pace of promotions.

What the Reforms Could Mean for Teachers

If fully implemented, the new reforms could bring several major benefits to teachers, including:

Faster Career Growth

Teachers would spend less time in the same job groups, allowing for quicker advancement and improved earnings throughout their careers.

Improved Morale and Motivation

A fairer promotion structure could help boost morale among teachers, many of whom have felt overlooked despite years of service.

Better Retention in the Teaching Profession

Faster promotions and improved salaries may encourage more teachers to remain in the profession and reduce frustration within public schools.

Recognition of Experience and Qualifications

The new system is expected to better recognize teachers’ academic achievements, professional development, and classroom experience.

Increased Productivity in Schools

Motivated teachers are likely to improve performance, discipline, and overall learning outcomes in schools.

Pressure on Government to Release Additional Funds

While the Ksh 8.4 billion already secured marks a significant step forward, the Commission is still seeking another Ksh 8.4 billion to fully support the proposal to shorten the CBA implementation period.

The additional funding would ensure teachers receive the agreed benefits within a shorter timeframe, easing financial pressure and fulfilling expectations raised during negotiations.

Education observers say the government’s response in the coming weeks will be closely watched by teachers nationwide, especially as anticipation continues to build around the official release of the new promotion guidelines.

Teachers Waiting for Official Communication

Despite growing excitement surrounding the reforms, teachers are now waiting for official communication from the Commission regarding implementation timelines, salary adjustments, and the operational details of the new promotion structure.

Many educators have welcomed the developments cautiously, expressing hope that the proposed reforms will finally address years of complaints regarding stagnation and delayed career growth.

For now, attention remains fixed on the Teachers Service Commission and the government as teachers across the country await what could become a historic turning point for the profession.

If successfully implemented, the reforms may not only improve teachers’ welfare but also reshape the future of education management in Kenya for years to come.