TSC Gives Way Forward After Teacher Killed in Al-Shabaab Attack

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced an urgent review of security arrangements for teachers deployed in Northern Kenya following the killing of a teacher in Garissa County in an attack blamed on suspected Al-Shabaab militants.

In a statement issued on Monday, January 26, the Commission revealed that it would conduct an on-the-ground security assessment in Hulugho Sub-County on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. 

The exercise will be carried out in collaboration with other government agencies responsible for security and regional administration.

According to TSC, the visit aims to establish the prevailing security situation in the area and evaluate the safety of teachers working in regions considered high-risk due to recurrent terror-related incidents.

“The Commission, together with other relevant government agencies, will visit Hulugho Sub-County in Garissa to assess the situation on the ground and ascertain the safety of its employees in the area,” the statement read.

The announcement followed the killing of Stephen Vundi Musili, a teacher who was shot dead while on duty in Garissa County. 

TSC expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing it as a tragic loss not only to the teaching fraternity but also to the education sector at large.

TSC Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei conveyed condolences to Musili’s family, colleagues, and learners, assuring them of the Commission’s support during the difficult period. 

She noted that the safety and welfare of teachers remains a priority for the Commission, particularly those serving in hardship and insecurity-prone areas.

Preliminary police reports indicate that the attack occurred in the early hours of Monday and involved multiple targets. 

Suspected militants are reported to have first stormed the residence of a local chief, shooting him at close range before detonating an explosive device on his vehicle parked outside the compound.

The attackers later moved to Musili’s home, where they reportedly forced him outside before shooting him dead a short distance away. 

The assailants then fled the scene, prompting a security operation in the area.

Following the incident, the government, working alongside security agencies, airlifted Musili’s body to Nairobi. The remains are currently preserved at Chiromo Funeral Home as funeral and burial arrangements continue.

TSC confirmed that it is working closely with the bereaved family to ensure they receive the necessary support and that the late teacher is accorded a dignified send-off.

Condemning the attack, the Commission termed the killing a cowardly and heinous act of terror that undermines the right to education and places both teachers and learners at risk.

“This act of terror not only claimed the life of a young and dedicated teacher but also threatens access to education in affected regions,” TSC stated, adding that insecurity continues to disrupt learning in parts of Northern Kenya.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to collaborating with security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen safety measures in vulnerable areas. 

It also reassured teachers serving in such regions that their concerns are being taken seriously.

“We wish to inform the public that the Commission takes the safety and security of teachers seriously and will offer all the necessary support to improve the welfare of its employees,” the statement added.

The killing has once again renewed calls for enhanced protection of civil servants working in areas frequently targeted by militant groups. 

Teachers’ unions and education stakeholders have in the past urged the government to review deployment policies and improve security infrastructure to prevent loss of life.