Teachers in Kenya have been leaving the country to seek better opportunities abroad, particularly in the United States. The reasons behind this exodus are manifold: inadequate pay, demotivation, dejection, and unbearable working conditions have all contributed to a professional landscape that many educators find untenable.
Despite securing government jobs, many teachers have raised serious concerns about their working conditions. They point to issues such as insecurity and poorly conceived policies that negatively impact their professional lives. The lack of proper support and incentives has led to widespread dissatisfaction, prompting many to consider opportunities abroad where the teaching profession is more respected and better remunerated.
Silvia Wanjiru’s story is emblematic of the struggles faced by many Kenyan teachers. Wanjiru began her teaching career in January 1987, dedicating herself to elementary education for decades. Despite her unwavering commitment and years of service, she never received a promotion, a situation that left her feeling undervalued and disheartened.
“I have spent over 30 years shaping the minds of young children, but the system has given me nothing in return,” Wanjiru lamented. Her story is not unique. Many teachers like her feel stuck in a profession that offers little room for growth or recognition.
One of the most significant issues driving teachers away is inadequate pay. Despite the critical role they play in society, teachers in Kenya are often underpaid. The salary they receive is insufficient to cover their basic needs, let alone provide a comfortable life. This financial strain leads to demotivation, as teachers struggle to make ends meet.
In addition to poor pay, teachers face dejection from lack of professional development opportunities and recognition. Many feel that their hard work and dedication go unnoticed and unappreciated. This dejection is compounded by unbearable working conditions, including overcrowded classrooms, lack of teaching materials, and inadequate facilities.
Teachers have also voiced concerns about insecurity in their workplaces. Instances of violence against teachers and lack of safety measures have created a hostile work environment. Furthermore, poor policies and frequent changes in the education sector add to the frustration. Teachers often find themselves caught in a web of bureaucratic red tape, making it difficult to implement effective teaching strategies.
