MEET ARIANA
In a dynamic world, teachers stand as the architects of enlightenment, urgently needed and wanted. Their role isn’t merely desired; it is vital in guiding generations through the labyrinth of knowledge. Let’s acknowledge and celebrate their indispensable contribution, for today, more than ever, teachers shape both minds and destinies. – Ariana Oluwole
October 5 – World Teacher’s Day 2023 – UNESCO Theme: The teachers we need for the education we want: The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage.
As of August 24, 2022, Sierra Leone boasts 80,744 teachers among a population of slightly over 8 million people. This is a considerable number deserving of recognition and support.
Over the years, considerable efforts have been made by the public and private sectors to recognize and support teachers, educators, and other support staff. However, without conducting a statistical survey, it’s no secret that teaching is one of the least desirable jobs in Sierra Leone or other developing and developed countries.
To such an extent that the profession has been considered a stop-gap year position for undergraduates and even unqualified high school seniors seeking work experience or cash to meet their basic needs. Over time, the profession is becoming less attractive for the young and skilled workforce, and experienced teachers are struggling to adapt to a fast-changing world.
As a holistic education practitioner and early childhood development specialist, who accidentally discovered her passion for education and teaching, I would have outgrown this dream if I hadn’t come from a line of passionate teachers, with an entrepreneurial-international management and human resource background. Armed with experience in the aforementioned industries, I was blessed to innovate and create unique products and services, earning the name ‘Edupreneur.’
However, many teachers do not have this luxury, nor do they find themselves in institutions that have the resources to keep them motivated while putting meals on their table and securing their future.
How then can we discover and nurture/groom the teachers of the future who will give us the education that we deserve in the 21st Century?
In the grand narrative of learning, teachers are expert builders, helping us understand things better. But in our world today, where information is crucial and creativity is key, we need to ask: How do we find and help teachers who can keep up with all the cool changes?
The word classroom must be reframed and introduced as a special place that transcends structural and physical spaces. Teaching today is not just about books and boards. It’s a blend of using technology, critical thinking, and readiness for anything. So, how can we find and help teachers who can handle all this new stuff? What would you say to the following? We must introduce:
Tech Tricks:Make friends with technology! Encourage teachers to learn how to use smart boards, virtual reality, and online tools. The classroom is like a stage, and teachers need to be adept at using these cool tools. Let’s turn the fear of tech into excitement.
Creativity Power: The future belongs to those with great ideas, and teachers are the builders of those future thinkers. Create spaces where teachers can try out new things and be creative. It’s not just about learning a subject; it’s about teaching in a way that helps students understand the real world.
Mixing Subjects: Subjects are not as separate as they used to be. Teachers should be like all-around experts, connecting science with art or literature with technology. It’s not just teaching a subject; it’s about showing how everything fits together.
Once we find good teachers, how do we help them get even better? By embracing the very principles of learning. Here are a few suggestions:
Learning from Experts
Every learner needs a guide. Create programs where experienced teachers help the new ones, sharing what they know. It’s not just about teaching tricks; it’s about passing on the joy of teaching and learning.
Always Learning
Learning doesn’t stop, and neither should our teachers. Establish initiatives where they keep getting better, whether it’s attending workshops, pursuing further studies, or collaborating on new ideas. The best teachers are always learning.
Being Kind Teachers
More than just knowing a lot, teachers should be kind and understanding. They should understand what each student needs. Being caring and making a connection is like magic in teaching.
Sierra Leone and other developing countries can take several strategic measures to address the global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage. Addressing this issue is crucial for improving educational outcomes and promoting sustainable development. Here are some recommendations:
Keep Investing in Education
Allocate a significant portion of the national budget to education, with a focus on teacher recruitment, training, and retention. Prioritize education in development plans and international cooperation agreements.
Prioritize Teacher Training and Professional Development
Develop and implement localized comprehensive teacher training programs to ensure that educators are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge.Establish ongoing professional development opportunities to keep teachers updated on best practices and new teaching methodologies.
Generate Better Incentives and Improved Working Conditions
Offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain qualified teachers.
Improve working conditions, including providing adequate resources, facilities, and support staff.
Inject Moral Boosters, vis-à-vis Community Engagement
Involve local communities in the education system, fostering a sense of ownership and support for schools and teachers. Encourage parents and community members to participate in the education process and value the role of teachers.
Innovate and Utilize Technology
Integrate technology into education to enhance teaching methods and reach remote areas.
Provide training for teachers to effectively use educational technology in their classrooms.
Review Recruitment Strategies
Implement targeted recruitment strategies, including scholarships and incentives, to attract individuals to the teaching profession.
Encourage the recruitment of teachers from local communities, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.
Stop the Stereotyping and Address Gender Disparities
Promote gender equality in education by encouraging both men and women to pursue teaching careers.Implement policies that address gender-based discrimination and create a supportive environment for all teachers. Promote diversity and inclusion that includes educators with special needs and people with disability.
Decentralize International Collaboration
Collaborate with international organizations, NGOs, and donor agencies to access resources, expertise, and funding for education initiatives. Participate in global forums to share best practices and learn from successful experiences in other countries.
Data Collection and Monitoring
Establish effective data collection systems to monitor teacher recruitment, retention, and performance.Use data to identify challenges, measure progress, and make informed policy decisions.
Promote Alternative Teaching Models
Explore alternative teaching models, such as community-based education, online learning, and peer-to-peer teaching, to reach hard-to-reach and vulnerable communities or areas.
By implementing a combination of these strategies, low and middle-income (LMIC) countries can contribute to the global effort to reverse the teacher shortage and improve the quality of education for their populations. One would say it is crucial to customize these approaches based on the specific needs and context of each country and I agree!
As we appreciate teachers today, let us seek to address and support the profession that births every career known to man.
Send a gratitude note to a teacher that you admire.
