State keen to fix teacher shortage in Northeastern — Nabukwesi

Education ministry is working closely with the Teachers Service Commission to address the teachers shortage in schools in Northeastern, Higher Education PS Simon Nabukwesi has said.

Speaking at the Garissa University during an official tour of the facility, the PS said all efforts are being made to ensure learners in the region get quality education.

He said some of the measures the government has put in place include that of lowering the entry grade for colleges and universities for local students pursuing education courses.

Currently, the entry grade for students wishing to join colleges is C plus for secondary schools and C plain for those wishing to pursue diploma for primary schools.

The grades have proved to be a tall order to attain for a majority of students, something that has ended up locking out a majority of students. 

The PS said he was aware of the challenge hence the move to have the region given special preference in terms of entry grades for those wishing to pursue the courses.

“I, however, must make it clear that that remains a proposal which I will discuss with the TSC secretary for consideration. In fact, apprenticeship arrangement would work best in terms of providing an immediate solution," Nabukwesi said. 

“The government has funded construction of a 750-bed capacity hostel here (Garissa University). We have a police post to make sure that the students are safe.

"We will also subsidise meals and accommodation fees for the university to attract more students to join teaching courses.”

The PS said the government was also considering paying school fees for students pursuing courses in education, as well as providing other incentives.

According to the Garissa University College principal Ahmed Warfa, they currently have 390 students who have enrolled in education, a number he said keeps on increasing with each intake.

He said the university fraternity has been engaging other players and talking to students in high schools to sensitise the community to take teaching careers.

Some non-local teachers have in the recent years fled the region due to insecurity caused by al Shabaab militants. 

(edited by Amol Awuor)