The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced that teachers across Kenya will move from the Minet medical cover to a new scheme under the Social Health Authority (SHA) effective December 1, 2025.

The decision follows a consultative meeting between TSC, teacher unions KNUT and KUPPET, and SHA officials, where the benefits of the new scheme were discussed.

“What we’ve agreed is that we are transitioning to SHA with effect from 1st of December 2025. As you are aware, the medical scheme for teachers under Minet is coming to an end on 30th of November. We are working towards a seamless transition of our teachers to the new medical scheme,” acting TSC CEO Evaleen Mitei said on Monday, November 10, 2025.

Also watch: KNUT boss Collins Oyoo backs shift to SHA medical cover.

The meeting addressed concerns raised by teachers, including the inclusion of group cover, elimination of access hurdles, and full disclosure of hospitals and benefits.

“Prior to which now which now existed prior to this meeting is been allayed and because it has been allayed it is official that we hope the Teacher Service Commission will do all the due diligence such that the teachers of this country benefit from excess of loss and also the ex-gratia. I think these are the take-homes that they have,” KUPPET Secretary General Akello Misori said.

SHA CEO Mwangangi highlighted the improvements under the new scheme.

“We have an expanded network of providers. This will be much improved from the current offering that Minet has. We’re looking at expanding this list to include level six hospitals, level five hospitals, level four hospitals, level three.”

Premium medical cover expanded

Under the new arrangement, teachers will be enrolled in the Public Service Fund and receive a premium SHA medical cover that extends beyond core benefits.

The scheme includes outpatient and inpatient services, dental and optical care, annual checkups, ambulance services including air rescue, overseas treatment, group life, and last expenses. Coverage includes the principal member, spouse, and up to six dependents.

The announcement follows weeks of discussions after a meeting between President William Ruto and teacher representatives at State House, Nairobi. Some teachers, led by KNUT Nakuru boss Anthony Gioshe, had expressed concerns over SHA, citing issues raised by other civil servants.

Teachers also questioned the 2.75 per cent mandatory SHA deduction, arguing it overlaps with existing contributions and could result in double deductions on their payslips. Despite this, TSC confirmed the transition will proceed, aiming for a smooth handover before the current Minet cover expires.