TSC to Export Jobless Teachers to 17 Countries Abroad; Requirements and Selection Criteria.
The Kenyan government has developed a policy framework and guidelines to facilitate the export of teachers to at least 17 countries. This initiative aims to provide employment opportunities for thousands of unemployed educators.
TSC CEO Nancy Macharia reported that the policy addresses growing international requests for Kenyan teachers, particularly from countries like the USA, Ireland, and Germany, where English teachers are in high demand.
South Africa seeks Kiswahili teachers, while nations like Thailand and Middle Eastern countries also require educators in various specialties. The commission, as of May 2024, had 714,234 registered teachers, of whom 360,000 were under permanent employment.
The TSC aims to target 354,234 teachers for international placements. Countries such as Kuwait, Japan, and the UAE need special needs education teachers, while Qatar requires educators for Islamic religious education and sciences.
Kiswahili teachers are also sought in China, France, Botswana, and Japan. English teachers are in demand in nations like France, Canada, Vietnam, South Korea, Spain, and Russia.
Selection Criteria for International Placement
Teachers interested in international jobs must meet specific qualifications, including being Kenyan citizens with degrees, diplomas, or certificates in education from recognized institutions.
They must be registered with the TSC, comply with Chapter Six of the Constitution, and meet host countries’ additional requirements, such as specialized training, certifications, or language proficiency.
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The selection process will assess essential skills, qualifications, and experience for specific teaching positions.
Once selected, teachers will undergo orientation programs covering areas such as cultural sensitivity, career development, security, and specific educational practices in host countries.
Standardized Contracts and Terms of Service
The TSC will advocate for standardized contracts outlining work terms, including salaries, hours, benefits, housing, insurance, and repatriation terms.
Teachers employed permanently by the TSC must resign before taking up international jobs. Although they may reapply for local positions upon their return, there is no job guarantee.
Formalizing Teacher Engagement Abroad
The policy framework aims to formalize the engagement of Kenyan teachers working abroad, protecting their interests through clear, competitive terms of service. It also seeks to foster partnerships with host countries, promoting global educational cooperation and professional growth for teachers.
President William Ruto’s administration has prioritized labor migration as part of its job creation strategy.
In July, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi oversaw the deployment of Kenyan teachers to the US through a placement agency, although this was not a government-led initiative.
Addressing Teacher Unemployment
Despite Kenya facing a teacher shortage, the government has been unable to absorb all qualified educators. For example, in October 2024, the TSC received 314,117 applications for 46,000 advertised positions.
Staffing shortages persist, especially in junior schools, which have been significantly impacted since their establishment two years ago.
The government’s policy highlights international teaching opportunities as a means for professional growth and development for Kenyan teachers.
Exposure to diverse educational systems enhances their skills, while remittances from abroad contribute to their families and boost the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Database for Teacher Deployment
The TSC will establish a centralized database to manage information about teachers seeking international jobs.
This database will include personal details, qualifications, expertise, and feedback mechanisms to refine the placement process. The policy framework will undergo reviews every three years or as needed.
Divided Opinions on Teacher Export
The initiative has sparked debate, with critics questioning why the government is not creating local jobs. Concerns have also been raised about the exploitative conditions some migrant workers face, especially in the Middle East.
ALSO READ: Kenya Exports Skilled Labour to Tackle Unemployment
Nevertheless, the government remains committed to supporting teachers in accessing international opportunities while improving their professional and economic prospects.
TSC to Export Jobless Teachers to 17 Countries Abroad; Requirements and Selection Criteria.
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