Shortage of Computer Science Lecturers in Kenya Sparks Concern
Scholars across Kenya have raised alarms over the severe shortage of Computer Science lecturers, highlighting the urgent need to address this gap to equip Kenyans with essential skills in computation, information, and automation.
With the growing recognition of computer science as a crucial skill and the plethora of opportunities emerging from this expansive field, academics are advocating for the increased training of trainers. The objective is to accommodate the rising number of students eager to gain proficiency in this area.
Considering the pivotal role Computer Science plays in today’s technology-driven world, the lack of educators in this field has been identified as a critical issue. Scholars are now calling for the training of specialists to address this shortage.
Call to Action
Recently, during a discussion at Zetech University, Catherine Muraga, the Managing Director of Microsoft Africa Development Center (ADC), urged universities to capitalize on the existing opportunities in the field to train more instructors.
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She emphasized the need for improved performance in mathematics to boost enrollment in STEM-related courses. She suggested that if there is a national shortage, the country should consider leveraging the East African Community to recruit lecturers or explore hybrid learning and training options.
Prof Alice Njuguna, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Zetech University, echoed these sentiments, revealing that the number of IT-specialized tutors in Kenya is currently insufficient.
She noted that through research and consultations with industry partners, a gap was identified, presenting opportunities to elevate the training of IT specialists.
This enhancement could lead to a deeper understanding of the industry, the development of research-based products, and the commercialization of locally created solutions, reducing the reliance on imported products.
The Market and Professional Development
Prof Njuguna also pointed out that Kenya’s market is technologically advanced enough to address the country’s challenges, but the shortage of highly trained professionals hinders progress.
She added that the field is highly lucrative, with graduates easily finding employment after earning their degrees.
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However, many of these professionals become so engaged in their work that they neglect to further their training, resulting in a lack of qualified individuals to train future students at the bachelor’s level.
“This field is highly lucrative and once one does a degree, they are easily absorbed into the market. Often, such graduates get busy and they forget to advance their training leaving no people to train the students in the bachelors’ level,” stated Njuguna.
Shortage of Computer Science Lecturers in Kenya Sparks Concern
