By Okoth Otieno
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has today named Eveleen Mitei as its acting Chief Executive Officer, following the commencement of terminal leave by outgoing CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia.
The announcement marks a pivotal transition for the TSC, Kenya’s constitutionally mandated body responsible for managing human resources within the public education sector.
Dr. Macharia, who has led the TSC for the past decade, officially began her terminal leave on June 1, 2025, ahead of her retirement scheduled for June 30, 2025.
In an internal memo dated June 1, Dr. Macharia urged TSC staff to extend their full support to Ms. Mitei, as she steers the Commission during this interim period. Part of the memo read:
“In the meantime, note that the commission has appointed Ms. Evaleen Mitei, to act as the Commission Secretary/CEO pending the appointment of my successor. I urge you to accord her the necessary support,” she revealed.
TSC is currently going through a competitive succession process to replace Dr. Macharia. In May 2025, the Commission invited applications for the CEO position, attracting high-profile candidates, the likes of Dr. Reuben Nthamburi, the current deputy CEO.
Ms. Mitei’s appointment as acting CEO is expected to ensure continuity as the TSC addresses legal succession hurdles and works towards appointing a permanent successor. The new CEO will serve a five-year term, renewable once, and will be tasked with overseeing the Commission’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations, as outlined in Section 16 of the TSC Act.
During her tenure, Dr. Macharia highlighted TSC’s achievements, including navigating complex challenges and transforming service delivery for educators across Kenya. She expressed confidence in the Commission’s future, stating:
“I am extremely proud of you, not just as employees of the Commission, but also as an outstanding team. I urge you to keep working hard, continue delivering services that reflect the best of you, and protect the core values of our institution,” she added.
The TSC, established under the Constitution of Kenya, plays a critical role in the education sector by managing teacher recruitment, deployment, and remuneration in public schools.
As Ms. Mitei takes the helm, the Commission continues its efforts to address administrative vacancies and implement key policy reforms, amidst growing scrutiny over teacher management and education standards in the country.