The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has introduced an official email system for all registered teachers in Kenya, aiming to streamline communication and provide access to Microsoft Office 365 resources. If you’re a teacher under TSC, activating your official email is essential for leveraging digital tools like Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, and more, to enhance teaching and collaboration.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough to help you activate your TSC email with ease.
Why Activate Your TSC Email?
The TSC email system offers numerous benefits that empower teachers professionally and academically:
- Enhanced Communication: Provides a professional email for correspondence with the TSC and educational stakeholders.
- Microsoft Office 365 Access: Enables use of tools like OneDrive, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to support teaching tasks.
- Collaborative Tools: Microsoft Teams facilitates virtual classes, file sharing, and communication with students and colleagues.
- Digital Resource Management: Simplifies the management of class materials, assignments, and other resources.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activating Your TSC Email
Step 1: Open the TSC Portal
Start by visiting the official TSC email portal: http://tscsearch.azurewebsites.net/. Use any web browser to access this page.
Step 2: Enter Your TSC Number
Locate the input field and type in your TSC number. Click Next to proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Verify Your ID
Enter your national ID number in the provided field and click Verify. This step confirms your identity in the TSC database.
Step 4: Answer the Security Question
A unique security question will appear on your screen. Provide the correct answer and click Verify to continue.
Step 5: Retrieve Your Credentials
Click on View My Credentials to view your assigned TSC email address and a temporary password. Write these details down carefully, as you’ll need them to log in.
Step 6: Log in at Office.com
Navigate to Office.com and click Sign In. Use the credentials provided in the previous step to log in.
Step 7: Set Up Account Security
To secure your account, you’ll need to set up additional security measures:
- Choose Kenya (+254) as your country code.
- Enter your phone number and select Text Me a Code.
- Click Next and enter the code sent to your phone.
- Once verified, proceed to secure your account further.
Step 8: Create a New Password
Reset your temporary password:
- Enter the temporary password in the first field.
- Create and confirm a new password that meets security requirements.
- Click Submit to finalize the password reset process.
Step 9: Explore Office 365
After logging in with your new password, you’ll gain access to Office 365. This includes your TSC email and a suite of productivity tools designed for education.
Tips for a Smooth Activation Process
- Double-Check Details: Ensure your TSC number and ID match the records to avoid verification errors.
- Choose a Strong Password: Use a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Secure Your Credentials: Keep your email address and password confidential to prevent unauthorized access.
- Use a Reliable Internet Connection: A stable connection ensures a seamless activation process.
Making the Most of Your TSC Email and Office 365 Tools
With your TSC email active, here’s how you can maximize its potential:
- Collaborate on Microsoft Teams: Use Teams to create virtual classrooms, share files, and communicate effectively.
- Watch this tutorial on creating a class team.
- Invite Students to Join: Share class team links with students to facilitate their participation.
- Create and Manage Assignments: Design assignments and track submissions on Microsoft Teams.
- Record Lessons for Flexibility: Use Teams to record and share lessons for students who may miss live sessions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter difficulties during the activation process, here are solutions to common problems:
- Incorrect TSC Number or ID: Verify the details you entered against official TSC records. For further assistance, contact TSC.
- Forgotten Credentials: Use the password recovery option on Office.com or reach out to TSC support.
- Security Code Not Received: Ensure your phone number is correct and has active service to receive the code.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I access my TSC email on a smartphone?
Yes, download the Microsoft Outlook app, log in using your credentials, and follow the setup instructions.
2. Is activating the TSC email mandatory?
Yes, as a TSC-registered teacher, the email is a critical tool for communication and accessing resources.
3. What happens if I don’t activate my TSC email?
Failure to activate your email may result in missing out on important updates and tools provided by TSC.
Activating your official TSC email is more than just a requirement—it’s a gateway to a host of tools and resources designed to make your teaching more effective and organized. By following this guide, you’ll be set up in no time, ready to explore the powerful features of Microsoft Office 365.
Take the initiative today and enhance your teaching journey! For more assistance, visit the TSC email portal or reach out to their customer support team.
