Teso South MP Mary Emase has urged the government to establish at least two diploma teacher training colleges in every county in order to address mess in the Junior Secondary School (JSS).
Speaking at Amukura Teachers Training College, Emase noted that retooled P1 and diploma teachers are the solution to the shortage, as they are trained to cover more than 4 subjects of specialisation as compared to degree graduates, who only specialise in two subjects.
The legislator has challenged P1 teachers to advance beyond their first certificate to boost their chances of either shifting to JSS or taking up the role of saving Kenya education by supporting the learning in the area.
“This is a significant milestone for education in Teso South and Busia at large as the college will be the only teacher training college in the county. I am looking forward to the positive transformation of the education system in the county as the college will be able to produce teachers who are well grounded to handle JSS,” said Emase.
Her sentiment comes after a recent report by the Teachers Service Commission Busia office indicated that Busia County has a huge deficit of math and science teachers, with 80% of science teachers in Busia having been employed from other counties.
“When there is an advert by TSC, Busia has a big shortage of science teachers; we are forced to recruit a large number from other counties, with the majority coming from Siaya and Bungoma,” the commissioner told KNA.
With Amukura TSC set to be commissioned later this year to receive the first cohort of learners, Emase has urged the contractor to ensure all is completed on time to pave way for inspection and the institution to be granted charter on time.
“Today, Amukura Teachers’ Training College (TTC) underwent a successful inspection and assessment by the County Quality Assurance team and the National team from the Ministry of Education. Led by Mr. Isaac Wasai (CQASO) from Busia County and Mr. Jeff Chevaregi (QASO) from Teso Central, the team gave the green light for the college to begin its registration process in readiness for the admission of the first batch of students in September 2025,” the legislator pointed out.
The college which was constructed by NG-CDF and sits on 5.2 acres, is viewed to be a game changer for education not only in the county of Busia but the entire country, as the schools will enjoy the privilege of college students doing their teaching practices hence addressing the teacher-student’ ratio.
This comes as KNUT Teso Branch Geoffrey Ekasiba wants the TSC to prioritise P1 teachers in the next recruitment.
By Absalom Namwalo
