Challenge Faced by Non-local Teachers in North Eastern
Non-local teachers working in North Eastern Kenya have encountered a range of significant challenges primarily stemming from insecurity issues in the region. These challenges not only affect the educators but also have far-reaching consequences for students’ education and well-being.
One of the primary challenges faced by these teachers is threats and insecurity. They often live in fear for their safety due to the presence of groups like Al-Shabaab and hostility from local communities. This insecurity has made it difficult for them to return to their workstations, and they have been requesting transfers to safer areas where they can work without constant fear for their lives.
The Interior Cabinet Secretary has suggested that local communities’ incitement contributes to this insecurity, but broader security and well-being issues remain unaddressed.
The high costs and logistical challenges associated with returning to their workstations, including the need for police escorts and long distances, have led to compromised livelihoods and economic hardships for non-local teachers.
Mental health concerns and psychological impact are also prevalent. The constant fear and exposure to danger have taken a significant toll on the mental health of these teachers, and many have expressed concerns about the psychological impact of working in such conditions.
Also Read:Â MOE Partner With German Firm To Recruit TVET Graduates
Additionally, the region, especially Mandera County, already faces a severe shortage of teachers, and the loss of non-local teachers exacerbates this problem, affecting students’ access to quality education. There are inadequacies in classrooms and an international teacher-to-learner ratio well above recommendations.
Despite the teachers’ requests for transfers, the lack of suitable replacements has been cited as a reason for not fulfilling their transfer demands by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). This has left the affected teachers in a precarious situation.
Moreover, there have been issues with delayed transfers and frustration with the TSC’s handling of the situation. The teachers have claimed that TSC officials responsible for facilitating transfers have ignored their pleas, and some have even been interdicted by the TSC on grounds of desertion of duty for seeking transfers.
Stretched facilities, including inadequate infrastructure and resources such as limited water sources, inadequate sanitation facilities, overcrowded classrooms, and dormitories in schools, further compound the challenges faced by both teachers and students in the region.
Finally, the teacher deployment decisions by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have faced criticism for refusing to post teachers to the North Eastern region and withdrawing those who were already serving there. This has contributed to the ongoing teacher crisis in the region.
Challenge Faced by Non-local Teachers in North Eastern
