In a significant move towards modernization and efficiency, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has introduced an online module for teacher leave applications. This initiative is part of the Commission’s strategic plan for the period 2019 to 2023, with the goal of enhancing service delivery to both employees and stakeholders.
Nancy Macharia, the CEO of TSC, announced this development, stating, “To achieve this goal, the Commission has successfully automated the leave application and approval process and migrated the same to an online system. To this end, there will be no manual application for all types of leaves effective 1st December 2021.”
This transformation in the leave application process applies to all teachers on the TSC payroll, including interns. Teachers who encounter difficulties while applying for leave online are encouraged to seek assistance from the Commission’s ICT field officers in their respective counties.
Here is a breakdown of the nine types of leaves that teachers can now apply for online:
1. Sick Leave
- A teacher can request sick leave if they are unable to perform their duties due to illness.
- The application should be made through the head of the institution and accompanied by relevant medical documents.
- The duration and conditions for sick leave vary depending on the circumstances, with options for full pay, half pay, and leave without pay.
2. Annual Leave
- Teachers are entitled to a maximum of thirty days of annual leave with full pay for each calendar year worked.
- Annual leave must be taken during school holidays and cannot be carried over from one year to the next.
- Teachers should apply for annual leave during school holidays.
3. Compassionate Leave
- Compassionate leave, for up to fifteen calendar days, can be granted at the discretion of the sub-county director or head of the institution.
- Teachers must apply in writing for compassionate leave, and the application process involves approval from the head of the institution.
4. Paternity Leave
- Male teachers can request twenty-one calendar days of paternity leave with full pay during their spouse’s maternity leave.
- The application process involves a written request, and approval is required from the Commission.
5. Maternity Leave
- Female teachers can apply for maternity leave, lasting one hundred and twenty calendar days with full pay, starting from the date of delivery.
- A female teacher should provide at least three months’ notice to the head of the institution with a medical practitioner’s letter indicating the expected delivery date.
6. Study Leave
- Teachers intending to pursue further studies can apply for study leave.
- The application process includes written requests and requires approval from the Commission.
- The duration of study leave and pay conditions depend on several factors, including the type of study, the teacher’s experience, and the relevance to the teaching service.
7. Special Leave
- Special leave with full pay may be granted for teachers selected to attend meetings, conferences, workshops, study tours, or seminars relevant to education and the teaching service.
- Teachers should apply in writing and provide relevant documentation for approval.
8. Adoption Leave
- This leave is available for male and female teachers who are adopting a child.
- The details of the application process and approval are specified by the Commission.
9. Spouse of Diplomat Leave
- Teachers who are spouses of diplomats, such as ambassadors, can request this leave.
- The application should be made in writing and accompanied by the necessary documentation.
- Teachers must apply for a new posting one month before the end of the spouse’s assignment.
These changes signify a significant step towards streamlining administrative processes and improving the overall experience for teachers when it comes to applying for different types of leaves. The shift to an online platform not only reduces paperwork but also ensures that leave applications are processed more efficiently, making life easier for teachers across the country.
As the Teachers Service Commission continues to adapt and innovate, it’s crucial for educators to stay updated on these changes and takeadvantage of the new online leave application system. This development not only enhances convenience but also reflects the commitment to serving the dedicated teachers who play a vital role in shaping the future of our nation’s youth.
Read also: Guide: TSC Online Leave Application Portal Login