The Malawi Government says it will recruit 1,100 secondary school teachers this year to address teacher shortages and rising enrolment in schools following the introduction of Free Secondary Education.

Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Bright Msaka, disclosed this on Monday during commemorations of World Teachers’ Day in Lilongwe.

Msaka said government advertised secondary school teaching positions and received 11,000 applications, with about 8,000 candidates shortlisted for interviews.

The recruitment process is currently underway.

Msaka said the number of teachers being recruited this year has been limited by budgetary constraints, but government intends to increase recruitment in coming years as secondary education continues to expand.

Msaka said government aims to reduce large class sizes, noting that having about 40 learners per teacher would be more manageable than classes of 50 or more.

He also highlighted efforts to improve teachers’ working conditions, including professional development, promotions, salaries, housing and workload management.

Msaka urged communities and other stakeholders to recognize and support teachers for their contribution to Malawi’s human capital development.

Aspolo Mousah – Staff reporter, Lilongwe