Teachers accused of sexual misconduct with learners could face immediate disciplinary action, including removal from the teachers’ register, if proposed amendments to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act are passed by Parliament.
The draft amendment Bill seeks to strengthen the mandate of the Teachers Service Commission, giving it expanded powers to investigate, discipline and deregister teachers found culpable of professional misconduct. The proposed changes are aimed at tightening accountability measures within the teaching profession, particularly in cases involving the abuse of learners.
Under the proposed law, teachers found guilty of engaging in sexual relationships with students would face mandatory deregistration, effectively barring them from practising in any learning institution in the country. The move is intended to close existing gaps that have allowed some offenders to return to classrooms after disciplinary processes.
The amendments also outline clearer procedures for handling complaints lodged against teachers. These include defined timelines for investigations, enhanced disciplinary hearings and stricter penalties for violations of the professional code of conduct.
Education stakeholders say the proposed reforms come amid growing concern over reported cases of inappropriate relationships between teachers and learners. Child rights advocates have long called for firmer action, arguing that existing measures have not gone far enough to deter misconduct or protect students.
If enacted, the law would reinforce the Commission’s oversight role and formalise its authority to share information with other state agencies in cases involving criminal conduct. Teachers facing allegations would still be entitled to due process, including the right to respond to accusations before disciplinary decisions are made.
The Bill is currently before Parliament for consideration. Lawmakers are expected to debate whether the proposed powers strike the right balance between protecting learners and safeguarding teachers’ rights.
Should the amendments pass, the changes would mark one of the most significant overhauls of teacher discipline regulations in recent years, signalling a tougher stance on professional misconduct in schools.
