2nd VP pushes for teachers’ in-house capacity building programmes
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR Second Vice-President Mr Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, graced the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebrations with a call to enhance in-house training and capacity-building programmes for teachers, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively.
During his address at Kizimkazi-Dimbani School, where teachers and stakeholders gathered, Mr Abdulla emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting ongoing professional development through its Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.
He stated, “In-house training and capacity building are essential for achieving quality education and enhancing the academic experience for our children and students.”
To keep pace with new educational systems, including digital technologies, Mr Abdulla urged teachers to pursue continuous professional growth, asserting, “Building capacity is crucial for teachers to adapt to these changes.”
He noted the significance of celebrating World Teachers’ Day as a moment for teachers to reflect on their transformative roles in education and the support they need to fully utilise their talents.
The 2024 theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” highlights the urgent need to listen to teachers’ insights and address their challenges while recognising their expertise in the educational landscape.
ALSO READ: Zanzibar unveils new oil, gas blocks
Mr Abdulla outlined various government initiatives aimed at safeguarding the welfare of teachers, including the establishment of a Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC) to advocate for teachers’ interests.
He also announced plans for a new Teachers’ Training College, designed to equip teachers with the skills necessary to navigate global advancements in science and technology.
Mr Abdulla encouraged teachers to use this occasion to share experiences and collaborate with the government to tackle pressing issues, such as moral decline among students and teachers, which has led to public outcry over incidents of misconduct.
In her address, Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Ms Lela Mohamed Mussa, stressed the importance of academic development for teachers to adapt to reforms, particularly those involving technology.
“The establishment of the TSC will provide teachers with a platform to discuss emerging challenges and advocate for their rights and benefits,” she promised.
General Secretary of the Zanzibar Teachers’ Union (ZATU), Mr Haji Juma, expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to reflect on the successes and challenges within the education sector.
He urged the government to involve teachers in decision-making processes to further strengthen educational quality in Zanzibar.
He concluded by emphasising the need for collaborative efforts among the government, teachers, and parents to improve the educational environment and ensure quality education for all students in Zanzibar.
