The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has narrowed its search for a new Secretary and Chief Executive Officer to five candidates, following a recruitment drive that attracted 124 applications.

The commission said the shortlist was compiled after assessing each application against the requirements set out in its advertisement dated 29 September 2026.

Applicants were required to be Kenyan citizens, hold a recognised university degree in Education, and possess at least ten years of experience in education, administration, public service, human resources or finance, as well as meet constitutional leadership and integrity standards.

The application window closed on 30 October 2026 at 5:00 pm, after which the commission verified completeness, submission format and conformity with the stated criteria.

The five shortlisted candidates – Cheptumo Ayabei (Baringo), Evaleen Jesang Mitei (Uasin Gishu), Robert Odette (Migori), Lawrence Ngai Kaburu (Tharaka Nithi) and Farah Abdi Saman (Mandera) – are slated to interview on 16 November 2026 at the TSC Building in Upperhill, Nairobi.

Interviews will be held on the third floor (Tower section) of the commission’s headquarters, and candidates have been instructed to arrive at least 30 minutes early with original identity, academic, professional and clearance documents.

Clearance requirements include up‑to‑date certificates from the Kenya Revenue Authority, Higher Education Loans Board, Ethics and Anti‑Corruption Commission, credit bureaus and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, plus a self‑declaration receipt for the EACC.

The commission has opened a public vetting channel, inviting anyone with credible information about the shortlisted individuals to submit sworn affidavits or email details to the chairperson by 13 November 2026, with assurances of confidentiality and possible follow‑up interviews.

TSC reiterated that the selection process will be guided by fairness, transparency and merit, emphasizing its status as an equal‑opportunity employer.