The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has justified the government’s decision to recruit 7,000 teachers, citing limited financial capacity despite mounting concerns over staffing shortages in schools nationwide.
Speaking at the launch and communications briefing of the 19th edition of the eLearning Africa Conference on Tuesday, April 14, the Minister acknowledged that the number falls short of the country’s needs but insisted it reflects current budget realities.
“If resources were available, we should be employing and recruiting up to 50,000 teachers across the country, but due to budgetary constraints, we are unable to do that. The Ministry of Education sought clearance from the Ministry of Finance to recruit up to 7,000 teachers with degrees and diplomas. Accordingly, the process has been advertised in an open, transparent manner,” he said.
His remarks come amid criticism from stakeholders who argue that the recruitment figure is insufficient to address teacher deficits, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Mr. Iddrisu, however, maintained that the process has been conducted fairly and in accordance with laid-down procedures, ensuring equal opportunity for qualified applicants.
He further disclosed that the government is looking beyond recruitment by introducing a digital education policy aimed at bridging systemic gaps and enhancing learning outcomes across the country.
The policy, he indicated, will leverage technology to complement teaching and learning, especially in areas facing persistent shortages of trained educators.
