TSC warns teachers over social media misconduct

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The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has warned teachers against cyberbullying, harassment and other forms of unprofessional conduct on social media, saying those found violating the rules will face disciplinary action.

In a circular dated August 13, 2026, the commission said it had noted a rise in cases of teachers engaging in cyberbullying, intimidation, harassment, dissemination of offensive content and other forms of online misconduct.

The TSC said teachers, as public officers, are required to uphold the dignity and integrity of the teaching profession both in physical interactions and on digital platforms.

“TSC has observed with concern the prevalence of instances of teachers in the public service engaging in unprofessional behaviour on social media platforms, including cyberbullying, harassment, intimidation, the dissemination of offensive content, and other forms of online misconduct.

"Whereas the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 guarantees freedom of expression under Article 33, such freedom cannot extend to propaganda for war, incitement to violence, hate speech, advocacy of hatred or expression that constitutes ethnic incitement, vilification or discrimination,” said Acting Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei.

“Teachers who misuse digital platforms may expose themselves and the Commission to legal liability arising from breaches of these statutory obligations. The Commission thus formally reminds all teachers that the standards of professional conduct and ethics required of members of the teaching profession are equally applicable in the digital and social media sphere,” she added.

Ms Mitei stated that although Article 33 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, the right does not extend to propaganda for war, incitement to violence, hate speech, advocacy of hatred or expression constituting ethnic incitement, vilification or discrimination.

“Teachers are therefore encouraged to refrain from developing or disseminating content that diminishes the dignity and integrity of the teaching profession, and to avoid engaging in conduct that may constitute cyber harassment, hate speech, incitement, or any unlawful digital or related activity. It is hereby clarified that such conduct contravenes statutory law and the policy framework governing teacher management,” said Ms Mitei.

The commission also cited constitutional protections on privacy and the best interests of children, saying these obligations apply equally in digital environments.

TSC further warned that teachers who misuse digital platforms could expose themselves and the commission to legal liability for breaches of statutory obligations, including those relating to the processing, sharing and protection of personal data involving learners and fellow teachers.

“Teachers are consistently expected to uphold the dignity, integrity, and reputation of the teaching profession in all interactions with learners, colleagues, parents, institutions, and members of the public, whether conducted in person or through digital platforms,” she added.

The commission directed teachers to observe Clauses 10, 12 and 24 of the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Teachers, 2015, which prescribe standards of professional behaviour.

It urged teachers to avoid developing or sharing content that diminishes the dignity and integrity of the profession and to refrain from conduct that could amount to cyber harassment, hate speech, incitement or other unlawful digital activity.

“The Commission thus formally reminds all teachers that the standards of professional conduct and ethics required of members of the teaching profession are equally applicable in the digital and social media sphere. Accordingly, and in addition to the aforementioned constitutional and statutory provision, the attention of teachers is directed to Clauses 10,12, and 24 of the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Teachers, 2015, which set out the expected standard of behavior,” said Ms Mitei.

The TSC said such conduct contravenes statutory law and the policy framework governing teacher management.

“Any teacher found to have engaged in cyberbullying or unprofessional conduct on social media shall be subject to disciplinary measures,” the commission said.

The sanctions will be imposed in accordance with the Teachers Service Commission Act, the Code of Regulations for Teachers and other relevant legislation, including administrative or disciplinary sanctions.

Reporting originally appeared via Nation Africa. Read the full source for additional context.