What Offences Are Punishable By TSC? [All You Need To Know]

If you’re a teacher in Kenya, it’s crucial to understand the offenses that could lead to disciplinary action by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

These offenses are categorized into three main areas: immoral behavior, professional misconduct, and infamous conduct.

Let’s break them down for you:

Immoral Behavior

Immoral behavior covers a range of actions that are considered unacceptable for a teacher.

These include:

Sexual Intercourse:

Engaging in sexual activities with students or other individuals that compromise the teacher’s professional conduct.

Sodomy:

Any form of unnatural sexual behavior.

Lesbianism:

Engaging in same-sex relationships that are deemed inappropriate.

Sexual Harassment:

Making unwanted sexual advances or creating a hostile environment through sexual comments or actions.

Professional Misconduct

Professional misconduct involves actions that go against the expected standards of behavior for a teacher.

This can include:

Negligence of Duty:

Failing to fulfill responsibilities or duties as a teacher.

Lateness to Duty:

Consistently arriving late for work without a valid reason.

Chronic Absenteeism:

Being absent from work frequently and without authorization.

Desertion:

Abandoning your teaching position without proper notification.

Incitement:

Encouraging others to engage in disruptive or unlawful behavior.

Insubordination:

Refusing to follow instructions or cooperate with superiors.

Infamous Conduct

Infamous conduct refers to actions that bring disrepute to the teaching profession.

This can include:

Drunkenness:

Being intoxicated while on duty or in public.

Fighting:

Engaging in physical altercations with others.

Conduct Contrary to Chapter Six of the Constitution:

Behaving in a manner that goes against the integrity and ethical standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Kenyan Constitution.

Forgery/ Presentation of Forged Documents:

Falsifying or presenting false documents.

Mismanagement, Misappropriation, and Embezzlement of Public Funds:

Mishandling or stealing public funds meant for educational purposes.

Any Other Act Incompatible with the Teaching Profession:

Any behavior or action that is deemed inappropriate or unethical for a teacher.

Conclusion

Understanding these offenses is crucial for every teacher in Kenya. By adhering to the standards set by the TSC, you can ensure that you maintain your professionalism and integrity in the teaching profession.

If you have any questions or concerns about these offenses, it’s advisable to seek guidance from the TSC or a legal professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About TSC Offences

Q: What is the Teachers Service Commission (TSC)?

A: The TSC is a government body in Kenya responsible for the registration, employment, and regulation of teachers in both public and private schools.

Q: What offenses can lead to disciplinary action by the TSC?

A: The TSC may take disciplinary action against a teacher for offenses such as immoral behavior (e.g., sexual intercourse, sodomy, lesbianism, and sexual harassment), professional misconduct (e.g., negligence of duty, chronic absenteeism, and insubordination), and infamous conduct (e.g., drunkenness, fighting, and mismanagement of public funds).

Q: How does the TSC investigate and handle complaints of misconduct?

A: The TSC has a disciplinary process that includes investigating complaints, gathering evidence, and giving the accused teacher an opportunity to respond.

If the allegations are substantiated, the TSC may impose disciplinary measures, including suspension or dismissal.

Q: Can a teacher appeal a decision made by the TSC?

A: Yes, a teacher has the right to appeal a decision made by the TSC.

The appeal process involves submitting a written appeal to the TSC Appeals Board, which will review the case and make a final decision.

Q: How can teachers avoid committing offenses that could lead to disciplinary action?

A: Teachers can avoid committing offenses by adhering to the code of conduct set by the TSC, maintaining professionalism in their interactions with students and colleagues, and seeking guidance from the TSC when unsure about their actions.