Shortage of educators echoes at World Teachers’ Day

KARACHI:

The Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) marked World Teachers' Day by aligning with UNESCO's theme, "The Teachers We Need for the Education We Want: The Global Imperative to Reverse the Teacher Shortage."

The event featured a panel discussion with distinguished figures in the education field, including Dr Faisal Bari from the Lahore University of Management Sciences, Dr. Ghazala Siddiqui, Founder and Principal of Generation's School, and Afaq Ahmed, a lecturer with extensive AKU background. The discussion was moderated by Professor Farid Panjwani, Dean of AKU-IED.

In a special message to teachers, Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of AKU, expressed deep appreciation for their invaluable contributions. He emphasised AKU's dedication to enhancing teacher capabilities to foster a high-quality education system in Pakistan. Dr. Shahabuddin mentioned, "Through teacher education programs and professional development initiatives, AKU-IED is actively preparing and empowering teachers who can significantly positively impact their students. In line with this commitment, we are collaborating with partners to train 1,000 education fellows for government schools in GB to improve the education system and address the shortage of quality teachers."

The panellists discussed the reasons behind the teacher shortage, its consequences, and potential solutions. Dr. Bari stressed the need for a substantial overhaul of educational policies, advocating for a commission to guide the next 5-10 years and receive endorsement from political stakeholders to ensure policy continuity.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 6^th, 2023.