Hallo SK.

I work for GoK in a certain Ministry. They declined my Study Leave citing that I had to have worked for the Gok for more that 4 years post-University to qualify for study leave. I need to resign with immediate effect. But I heard there is a penalty for abrupt resignations,and if I leave for study without approval,they will initiate disciplinary action (absent from the work station etc). I gave the Ministry an option of Unpaid Leave and Bonding for an extra 2 more years which they declined too. They said I was educated through undergraduate university by the people of Kenya and that I should postpone my training for 2 years. I have worked for Gok for 2 years now. I leave for postgraduate study next week for 1 year (Full Scholarship,Expenses paid,Allowances paid,VISA and ticket already sorted out). I fully intend to return to Kenya and to my work after the training. I don't mind my job; the pay is not good,but I enjoy my work and I get time to work on other businesses when off-work. I recently got promoted and they are adjusting salaries upwards (more than 20+K) for employees in my job group. How do I manouver this predicament without stepping on anybody's toes?

Sleep is the cousin of death.

...why dont you do what every other civil servant is doind... Give the boss two month's salary and he will give you a paid study leave. Hii ni nchi ya watu wadogo...

I know gava is rife with bribery when it comes to study leave. Have a pal that had to pay someone for the thing to get through. Of course you do not have to do that. I agree with @Igana i.e do not limit your future to your current employer. You have one full year to study and but also build contacts in the local private sector even when you are overseas. Who knows,you could even establish your own business depending on what it is you will be studying. All the best.

A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush.You can always try to postpone your scholarship.Dont be in such a hurry especially if you enjoy your job and remember retiring is 60yrs,plus in the civil service there is no job stress.I tell you in private companies they try to suck the living juice out of you even if the pay is better.Plus you can come back from abroad and u tarmac mpaka ushangae,unless you are sure your career is super competitive dont try anything based on probabilities and fantasies.Just weigh your options and take the safe option,this is real life dont try macho stuff.My two cents

Dude,I respect your opinion even though you disrespect mine...let the kiddo decide,after all he wanted different opinions...not just to be cheered on.