Government Urged to Establish More TTCs to Address JSS Teacher Shortage

Government Urged to Establish More TTCs to Address JSS Teacher Shortage.

Teso South MP Mary Emase has called on the government to set up at least two diploma teacher training colleges in each county to resolve the Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher shortage.

Speaking at Amukura Teachers Training College, she emphasized that retooled P1 and diploma teachers offer a viable solution, as they are equipped to handle more than four subjects, unlike degree graduates who specialize in only two.

She has encouraged P1 teachers to upgrade beyond their initial certification to enhance their chances of transitioning to JSS or contributing significantly to the education sector.

According to her, the establishment of the Amukura Teachers Training College is a major step forward for education in Teso South and Busia County, as it is the only teacher training institution in the region.

She expressed optimism that this initiative would transform the education system by producing well-trained educators for JSS.

Teacher Deficit in Busia County

Her remarks follow a recent report from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Busia office, which revealed a significant shortage of mathematics and science teachers in the county.

The report highlighted that 80% of science teachers in Busia have been recruited from other counties.

The commissioner explained that during TSC recruitment exercises, Busia faces a serious shortfall of science teachers, leading to heavy reliance on candidates from Siaya and Bungoma.

“When there is an advert by TSC, Busia has a big shortage of science teachers; we are forced to recruit a large number from other counties, with the majority coming from Siaya and Bungoma,” the commissioner told KNA.

With Amukura Teachers Training College scheduled for commissioning later this year, Emase has urged contractors to expedite the completion process to allow for timely inspection and accreditation.

She noted that the college recently underwent a successful inspection and assessment by both the County Quality Assurance team and the National Ministry of Education team.

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Led by Isaac Wasai (CQASO) from Busia County and Jeff Chevaregi (QASO) from Teso Central, the evaluation team approved the institution’s registration, paving the way for the admission of its first students in September 2025.

Impact on Education System

Constructed by NG-CDF and occupying 5.2 acres, Amukura TTC is expected to be a game changer, not only in Busia but across the country. Schools stand to benefit from student teachers undertaking their practical training, which will help address the current teacher-student ratio challenges.

Meanwhile, Geoffrey Ekasiba, KNUT Teso Branch representative, has called on TSC to prioritize P1 teachers in the upcoming recruitment exercise to further bridge the gap in the teaching workforce.

Government Urged to Establish More TTCs to Address JSS Teacher Shortage.

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