The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to clearly outline unacceptable social media conduct for teachers, emphasizing the need to differentiate between misuse and legitimate online activity.
KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu expressed concern over the broad language used in the recent TSC directive warning teachers against cyberbullying, harassment, and dissemination of offensive content. He stressed that the guidelines should target actual misconduct without restricting teachers’ positive use of digital platforms.
Speaking during a ceremony in Bomet where assistive mobility devices were distributed to teachers and students with disabilities, Oyuu highlighted the professional responsibility of teachers to set an example both offline and online. He cautioned that online content can create a permanent digital footprint, urging educators to exercise caution when posting or sharing material.
"The union represents trained professionals who must lead by example. The directive should clearly condemn misuse while supporting constructive social media engagement," Oyuu said.
First Vice National Chairperson Malel Langat added that social media has become an important tool for teaching and learning, especially as schools receive digital devices. She warned against measures that could stifle teachers' rights or undermine progress made under the Constitution.
On her part, TSC Acting CEO Evaleen Mitei reaffirmed that teachers are bound by the Teachers Code of Conduct and Ethics both offline and online. She warned that any teacher found guilty of cyberbullying or other unprofessional behaviour would face disciplinary action under existing laws.
The union noted that platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, X, and WhatsApp are widely used by teachers for educational purposes and social interaction. KNUT called on the TSC to specify prohibited actions under cybercrime laws rather than impose blanket restrictions on social media use.
