No political rallies in schools on weekdays, TSC warns teachers

School heads have been warned against allowing political rallies to be held in their institutions during lessons.

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) also urged politicians to stop campaigning in schools on weekdays.

Busia County TSC Director Ibrahim Rugut also warned the heads against allowing teachers to actively take part in politics.

Mr Rugut said school heads and teachers who violated the regulations would face dire consequences, including interdiction. So far, five teachers have been interdicted over campaigns ahead of elections.

"Teachers should not take sides in politics. They should remain impartial," said Rugut.

"The commission will take stern action against any principal or primary school head teacher found to have okayed any teacher to take part in campaigns or allowed rallies in their schools during lesson time."

Meanwhile, Rugut said TSC was addressing the shortage of teachers in the county. Schools with many teachers are required to release some to those that are understaffed. 

There is a shortage of more than 500 teachers in primary schools and over 1,000 in secondary schools. Teso North has a shortage of 170 teachers, Teso South 200 and Funyula 180.