What Is Desertion Of Duty In TSC? And Other Grounds For Interdiction

Understanding TSC Interdiction: Grounds, Procedures, and Consequences

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future, and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is tasked with ensuring the integrity and professionalism of teachers.

One key aspect under scrutiny is the interdiction process, where teachers may face serious consequences for various offenses.

In this article, we delve into the grounds for interdiction in TSC and the disciplinary procedures involved.

Desertion of Duty: A Serious Offense

Desertion of duty, as defined by TSC, refers to an absence from work for 14 continuous days without written permission, including weekends and public holidays.

This can result from failure to apply for sick leave, not reporting for duty after study leave, or neglecting to report to a new station after release.

Chronic Absenteeism: A Persistent Issue

Chronic absenteeism, marked by persistent and repeated unauthorized absences, is another ground for interdiction.

TSC identifies evidence through casualty returns, letters from authorities reporting absence, monthly staff returns, and warning letters related to absenteeism.

Criminal Convictions: A Barrier to Teaching

Teachers convicted of criminal offenses, especially those involving learners, face interdiction.

This includes offenses such as sexual misconduct, murder, robbery, assault, and any crime against a student.

Immoral Behavior: No Tolerance Zone

Engaging in sexual relationships or activities with learners, regardless of consent, is considered immoral behavior by TSC.

This encompasses sexual intercourse, harassment, and any inappropriate advances toward students.

Neglect of Duties: A Professional Shortcoming

Teachers who neglect their professional duties risk interdiction.

This includes failure to teach scheduled lessons, prepare necessary documents, prevent examination cheating, or participate in official duties and co-curricular activities.

Insubordination: Not Following Orders

Insubordination, demonstrated through disobedience to official instructions, failure to respond to letters or take up postings, can lead to interdiction.

This extends to non-compliance with recruitment guidelines or teaching without a valid certificate.

Infamous Conduct: A Breach of Professional Ethics

Any behavior contrary to professional ethics, such as using abusive language, public fighting, drunkenness, or involvement in illicit activities, may result in interdiction.

Forgery, Impersonation, and Collusion: Serious Offenses

Fraudulent activities, including forgery, impersonation, and collusion, are grounds for interdiction.

This covers instances such as forged signatures, submission of incorrect documents, and misrepresentation of information.

Mismanagement of Public Funds: A Legal Red Flag

Teachers involved in the mismanagement, misappropriation, or embezzlement of public funds can face interdiction.

This includes directing institutional funds for personal use or failing to follow proper procurement procedures.

Economic Crimes and Serious Offenses: Legal Ramifications

Participation in economic crimes under the Anti-Corruption and Serious Crimes Act (2003) can lead to interdiction.

This encompasses fraudulent payments, non-compliance with procurement laws, and engaging in institutional projects without proper planning.

Disciplinary Procedures: From Allegations to Action

When allegations arise, the disciplinary process begins at the institution level.

The authority, whether TSC County Director or Board of Management, investigates the claims, assembles evidence, and interviews the teacher and witnesses.

If the teacher is found with a case to answer, an interdiction letter specifying the allegations is served, and a copy is sent to the TSC/County Director with all relevant evidence.

Consequences of Interdiction

An interdicted teacher must clear and leave the institution within 48 hours of receiving the letter.

During the interdiction period, the teacher receives half salary, except in cases of chronic absenteeism, desertion, legal custody, misappropriation of public funds, fraudulent claims, use of false certificates, forgery, impersonation, collusion, and immoral behavior.

Conclusion

Maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession is paramount, and TSC’s interdiction process serves as a deterrent against misconduct.

Teachers must be aware of the grounds for interdiction and adhere to professional standards to ensure the quality and ethical practice within the education sector.