26 Degree Courses Banned by TSC.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Kenya has introduced guidelines that limit the validity of certain Bachelor’s degree courses for aspiring teachers. This move ensures that teachers possess degrees aligned with the evolving demands of the education sector.
TSC’s guidelines clearly state: “Applicants for registration whose training is in subjects that are currently NOT in the curriculum do not qualify, irrespective of having undertaken a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) and Enhancement.” This means that even those who have completed a PGDE with the affected courses are ineligible for registration as teachers.
According to TSC, these programs lack sufficient subject content, making the mastery of content in two teaching subjects inadequate. The commission emphasizes that a Bachelor’s degree in science or arts, combined with a PGDE and two teaching subjects, is necessary for eligibility.
List of Banned Bachelor’s Degree Courses
- Natural Resources
- Meteorology
- Forestry
- Animal Husbandry
- Horticulture
- Farm Machinery
- Fisheries
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Theology/Divinity
- Journalism
- Kiswahili and Communication
- Business Management and Administration
- Banking & Finance
- Genomics
- Actuarial Science
- Environmental Science
- Criminology
- Biotechnology
- Courses related to engineering
- Industrial Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics
- Technology and Applied Biology
- Microbiology
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Eligibility for Teaching Registration
Applicants with degrees in Economics, Commerce, or Accounting can apply for Business Studies. Additionally, diploma holders in English or other subjects can teach English/Literature if they have sufficient units in both language and literature.
For those applying for Agriculture, Business Studies, Home Science, and Computer Studies, it is crucial to have completed the two required teaching subjects at the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) level. Specifically:
- Applicants without a background in Business Studies or Computer Studies must have at least a C+ in Mathematics.
- Those without a background in Agriculture or Home Science need a minimum grade of C+ in Biology.
Graduate teachers must have completed at least eight course units in each teaching subject and must have undergone Special Methods training in their preferred teaching disciplines. Additionally, they need a minimum of three months of teaching experience.
Applicants who present enhancement certificates or official transcripts from accredited institutions in teaching subjects are eligible for employment if they scored a C+ at KCSE in the enhanced subject. Documentation of having taken courses on teaching methods during their undergraduate program is also necessary.
Read also:
- Exclusion of 26 Undergraduate Courses from PGDE Eligibility by TSC
- Applying for a TSC Number in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide
- Minimum Entry Qualifications for Teaching Service in Kenya
- Scrapping of P1 Certificates by TSC. What Next?
Impact on Prospective Teachers
The TSC’s directive affects prospective teachers who have completed or are pursuing degrees in the banned courses. They may face challenges in acquiring TSC certification. Such individuals should consult with the TSC and consider alternative pathways into the teaching profession.
Individuals affected by these restrictions can appeal to the TSC with additional information or grounds for consideration. The TSC evaluates appeals on a case-by-case basis, taking into account each individual’s specific circumstances.
Reasons Behind TSC’s Decision:
- Curriculum Alignment: Ensuring that teachers have degrees closely relevant to the curriculum they will teach.
- Subject Expertise: Emphasizing the importance of subject-specific expertise for effective teaching.
- Educational Relevance: Focusing on degrees that directly contribute to improving the educational system.
Steps for Affected Individuals:
- Consult with TSC: Individuals with degrees in the banned subjects should speak with the TSC to understand the requirements for teaching certification.
- Consider Alternative Approaches: Those affected may need to pursue additional pedagogical training or enroll in recognized teacher training programs.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes or updates to the approved list of courses by regularly checking TSC updates.
In conclusion, the TSC’s decision to ban certain Bachelor’s degree courses underscores its commitment to maintaining high teaching standards. This directive ensures that educators have qualifications relevant to Kenya’s dynamic educational landscape. Prospective teachers should remain informed about TSC standards and seek clarification when needed to navigate these changes effectively.
26 Degree Courses Banned by TSC.