In a major reprieve for teachers, the Teachers Service Commission has written to the Director of Pensions at the National Treasury, giving an order allowing teachers who quit teaching to take up roles in public universities to start accessing their pensions once they reach the minimum retirement age of 60 years. This move will bring relief to hundreds from among the country’s educators who moved into teaching at the university level but were left guessing regarding their retirement pension benefits.
Key Details
New Pension Access Policy
- TSC’s Directive: Dated 5th July 2024, the directive allows teachers who had migrated to public universities to access pensions; no need to work until 75 years as the mandatory retirement age for university lecturers.
- Reasoning: The TSC is aware that university lecturers can retire before the age of 75 years since there are no other ways to leave duty applicable under the university setup. This type of resignation should be treated as voluntary retirement for pension reasons.
Official Statements
- Pension Act Provisions: The TSC’s letter stresses the understanding that the spirit of Pension Act Cap 189 should accord such teachers an opportunity to get their benefits after resignation at 60.
- Supportive Evidence: The letter from the TSC will be supportive evidence in claiming pension, so the Commission does not shortchange the teachers who moved to universities.
Implications for Teachers
- Resignation as a Mode of Retirement: The circular explains that resignation shall henceforth be a distinct mode of getting out of service, with all retirement dues applying.
- Conditions of Release: The TSC noted that the pension for teaching service is suspended until a member qualifies for retirement under their respective Pension Schemes. This move is aimed at filling the gap for those leaving to take up university roles.
Government’s Role in Retirement Benefits
- Social Security: Pursuant to Article 43(1)(e) of the Constitution, retirement benefits are offered to public officers by the State as a means of ensuring that they have social security during old age.
- Pension Act (Cap 189): The Act regulates the award of pensions, gratuities, and other emoluments for public service officers, hence ensuring that there is continuity in service upon retirement.