Severe Shortage of English Teachers Raises Alarm.
English language professionals have raised concerns over the significant shortage of English teachers in the country, warning that failure to address the issue could hinder the language’s development nationwide.
During a stakeholders’ meeting at Zetech University’s Mang’u Campus, the Chairman of the English Language Professional Association of Kenya, Otieno Odhiambo, emphasized the urgent need to train and employ more English teachers.
The association, which represents English teachers across the country, noted that the current shortage has caused an overwhelming workload for the few teachers available in most schools.
Odhiambo highlighted that English, as a compulsory subject within the curriculum and an essential language nationally, should be prioritized by hiring highly qualified teachers. He explained that many schools are grappling with less than five trained English teachers managing a large student population, which has severely strained resources.
He stated that the government’s 100 percent transition policy and the construction of new schools have exacerbated the situation, resulting in a greater burden on the few teachers available. “English being a compulsory subject, coupled with the government’s policy on 100 percent transition as well as the construction of more schools has made the situation worse,” Odhiambo remarked, adding that some teachers now handle up to 28 lessons a week.
Declining Enrollment in English Education
At the same time, Odhiambo expressed concern about the low number of university students enrolling for Bachelor of Education degrees with an English specialization. He encouraged more students to pursue English education, citing the growing demand in the job market.
The Association’s Secretary, Rukia Mohammed, noted that teaching English in remote rural areas remains a major challenge because many learners prefer communicating in their vernacular languages.
She suggested that policies should be revised to allow early learners to be taught in their native languages to enhance understanding and boost academic outcomes. Rukia asserted, “Learners in the rural areas are always disadvantaged when learning in English. We advocate the need to mix the language for easier comprehension.”
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The professionals recommended that English teachers undergo refresher courses to equip themselves with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, and to address new challenges including mental health issues among learners. They stressed that teachers must stay updated to keep pace with the evolving educational landscape.
Zetech University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Njenga Munene, emphasized the importance of strengthening stakeholder engagement to confront the hurdles English professionals face. He said, “More can be done to respond to the new technological changes and the dynamism of languages,” underscoring the need for a collaborative approach to overcome current challenges.
Severe Shortage of English Teachers Raises Alarm.
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