MAKE TEACHING,MORE DESIRABLE
MAKE TEACHING,MORE DESIRABLE
We live in a capitalistic world. Everything is measured for its
monetary value. Take the case of some undergraduates, there arent
many who are happy with the courses they are pursuing, but they
continue only because such courses assure them of a job and a
better future.
In todays society, a good life is measured by the high salary
one gets.
I am studying to become a teacher, just like both my parents. It
doesnt pay as well as jobs in other industries, but I have decided
to take up teching as a career because I have a passion for it.
However, that does not mean I will be content with the current
salary and promotion structure.
In fact, there are not many high-achieving students who would
consider a career in teaching but they are turned off because it
does not value, appreciate and reward young teachers with
potential, passion and creativity.
Those who are in the profession with a few years of service, are
also thinking of opting out because they are not given recognition
for their skills and commitment.To make it a dream job that appeals
to intelligent and competent people, the Government has to reward
them with higher salaries.
While I am aware of the many incentives being currently given to
school heads and teachers for their hard work, the prospects for
young outstanding teachers are still bleak.
The teaching profession has always favoured seniority, and over
time more senior teachers are going to be promoted. The younger
cikgus will still have to wait their turn to move up the long
ladder. This is totally unfair and it is one reason why many young
teachers with potential are being driven away from the
profession.
What I am suggesting is to reward bright, young teachers who not
only have a passion for their job, but who are willing to go the
extra mile and have results to show.
How do we determine good teachers?The authorities aware that
many teachers resort to offering a glimpse of the examn question to
their students to ensure they obtain good grades for their
respective subjects in class or school exams?
Perhaps we need to adopt a different method of measuring the
standards of a good teacher. Our students will lose out if they are
made to believe they are high achievers when in fact, the method of
grading them is questinable.
Teachers should be gauged not just by their studentsacademic
achievement but by the latters development of soft-skills and their
understanding of culture. Local and world affairs.
Our cikgus should also be measured for their individual skills
and strengths which should be of state, national and even
international education standards.
I must add that the future of this country depends on a sound
education system, and it starts with a dynamic and competent
teaching force.
