MAKE TEACHING,MORE DESIRABLE

We live in a capitalistic world. Everything is measured for its monetary value.

Take the case of some undergraduates, there arent many who are happy with the
courses they are pursuing, but they continue only because such courses assure
them of a job and a better future.
In todays society, a good life is measured by the high salary one gets.
I am studying to become a teacher, just like both my parents. It doesnt pay as
well as jobs in other industries, but I have decided to take up teching as a career
because I have a passion for it.
However, that does not mean I will be content with the current salary and
promotion structure.
In fact, there are not many high-achieving students who would consider a
career in teaching but they are turned off because it does not value, appreciate and
reward young teachers with potential, passion and creativity.
Those who are in the profession with a few years of service, are also thinking
of opting out because they are not given recognition for their skills and commitment.
To make it a dream job that appeals to intelligent and competent people, the
Government has to reward them with higher salaries.
While I am aware of the many incentives being currently given to school heads
and teachers for their hard work, the prospects for young outstanding teachers are
still bleak.
The teaching profession has always favoured seniority, and over time more
senior teachers are going to be promoted. The younger cikgus will still have to wait
their turn to move up the long ladder. This is totally unfair and it is one reason why
many young teachers with potential are being driven away from the profession.
What I am suggesting is to reward bright, young teachers who not only have a
passion for their job, but who are willing to go the extra mile and have results to
show.
How do we determine good teachers?The authorities aware that many
teachers resort to offering a glimpse of the examn question to their students to
ensure they obtain good grades for their respective subjects in class or school
exams?

Perhaps we need to adopt a different method of measuring the standards of a

good teacher. Our students will lose out if they are made to believe they are high
achievers when in fact, the method of grading them is questinable.
Teachers should be gauged not just by their studentsacademic achievement
but by the latters development of soft-skills and their understanding of culture. Local
and world affairs.
Our cikgus should also be measured for their individual skills and strengths
which should be of state, national and even international education standards.
I must add that the future of this country depends on a sound education
system, and it starts with a dynamic and competent teaching force.