The Taita Taveta government has absorbed 368 Early Childhood Development Education and Vocational Training Centres teachers into a permanent and pensionable scheme of service.
Governor Andrew Mwadime handed the jubilant tutors employment letters on Wednesday, saying the move was meant to improve the quality of education in the county.
Those hired permanently include 308 ECDE and 60 VTC teachers. Taita Taveta has 673 ECDE teachers.
“All teachers on contract terms have now been elevated to the permanent scheme. This will play a role in improving the level of ECDE in the county owing to the critical role played by teachers,” Mwadime said.
The governor said the scheme will boost the tutors’ personal growth and motivate them to offer the best services to more than 12,000 ECDE learners.
He urged the teachers to ensure they work with passion, compassion and care as demanded by the teaching profession.
"We expect high levels of professionalism from the teachers. Ensure you nurture the children's talents because talent pays," he said, adding that teachers are role models in society.
Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo underscored the county's commitment to enhance education standards, emphasising that education is the key to a brighter future.
She said ECDE teachers are key in building a strong foundation for children and should therefore be committed to their duties.
“ECDE teachers have continued to play a great role in moulding the growth and character of children in preparation for a bright future. This scheme is therefore to support them for the good work they are doing,” Kilalo said.
She said the county government is keen to support ECDE centres through improvement of infrastructure and distribution of learning and teaching materials, crucial factors in ensuring success of the education system.
Education executive Gloria Monikombo asked teachers to seize the opportunity to advance their academic qualifications since the new scheme has room for promotion.
Monikombo said teachers will also be able to access loans for their personal development.
Meanwhile, Governor Mwadime has awarded scholarships to 100 needy and bright Form 1 students who are joining schools across the country.
Mwadime said the county scholarship programme has so far benefitted a 671 students.
He advised the beneficiaries to work hard and maintain high standards of discipline to excel in their studies.
