End of an Era: Nancy Macharia Exits, Eveleen Mitei Fills TSC Hot Seat

After a decade at the helm of Kenya’s Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Dr Nancy Macharia has officially stepped aside. In her place, Eveleen Mitei will now serve as the acting CEO—at least for now.

Macharia, who has led the commission since 2015, began her terminal leave on Saturday, marking the beginning of the end of her two-term leadership. In a memo seen by The Times, Macharia confirmed her departure and introduced Mitei as the temporary replacement.

“I am proceeding on terminal leave with effect from June 1, 2025, pending my retirement on June 30,” said Macharia.
“In the meantime, note that the Commission has appointed Ms Eveleen Mitei to act as the Commission Secretary/CEO pending the appointment of my successor. I urge you to accord her the necessary support.”

Mitei, who has been serving as Deputy Head of Human Resources at the TSC, now steps into the spotlight. Her appointment, though expected internally, comes during a period of uncertainty and tension.

The process to find a permanent replacement for Macharia hit a snag last week. The Employment and Labour Relations Court in Mombasa issued an order stopping the recruitment process, citing claims of constitutional breaches and unfair requirements in the advertised job criteria.

The legal challenge was filed shortly after the commission closed applications on May 27, just three weeks after the vacancy was announced.

Though the court’s order has paused interviews, the race to lead TSC has already drawn public attention.

Among those rumoured to be in contention are:

  • Dr Reuben Nthamburi, TSC Deputy CEO, known for his administrative strength.
  • Prof Charles Ong’ondo, head of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, lauded for overseeing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
  • Dr Julius Jwan, a former Basic Education Principal Secretary, with deep government ties.
  • Dr Lydia Nzomo, former TSC director, respected for her advocacy for teachers’ rights.
  • Dr Simon Gicharu, founder of Mount Kenya University, seen by some as a wildcard but with notable education sector credentials.

While speculation swirls, the court case has thrown the succession timeline into doubt. It’s unclear when or how soon the commission can restart the recruitment process.

In the meantime, Eveleen Mitei is tasked with holding the reins.

Macharia exits with a legacy that is both praised and debated. She was the first woman to lead the commission since its formation in 1967 and oversaw key reforms in teacher management, digital systems, and capacity development.

Though critics have raised concerns over promotions and union relations during her tenure, supporters say she modernised the commission and championed professional growth.

“She was firm but fair,” said one senior education official, who asked not to be named. “Her legacy will be measured by the systems she built, not just the storms she weathered.”

With her departure, Kenya’s education sector now watches closely as the leadership vacuum grows—and the court battle unfolds. For now, Mitei’s job is to steady the ship.

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