The dire shortage of teachers in the country for both primary and secondary schools that is currently plaguing the country is expected to actually double due to minimal enrollment to teaching colleges.
This has been blamed on form four national examinations poor performance that has been ongoing for the past few year’s.
Speaking during the Eckernford Teachers’ Training Institute’s 17th Graduation ceremony held over the weekend in Tanga, Principal Dominic Katto said that between 2010 and 2012 the level of enrollment has persistently declined.
He sadly reported that most of the students lack even the very basic qualifications.
Meanwhile, the Acting Regional Administrative Secretary, Monica Kinala, said the government will continue to cooperate with non-governmental organizations to support the education sector in the country.
She said the current demand of teachers in primary and secondary schools is still wanting and she urged the private colleges in the country to strengthen up their services to complement the government initiatives.
"The government appreciates and encourages support from the private sector…,” she said.
She then urged graduates to recognise their social responsibilities and rise up to the challenge and maintain professional ethics at their work places.
Earlier, in the same occasion, Remius Tarimo, the institute’s chief executive officer reported that graduations are considerably encouraging.
"Over 7000 teachers secured their certificates and diplomas since the establishment of the institution back in 1994, we will continue to work closely with the government to reduce the shortage of teachers,” he added.
About 368 students graduated at the level of certificate and diploma during the event are expected to quickly join the work force but nonetheless the need is still extremely high.
SOURCE:
THE GUARDIAN
