Egypt's Minister of Education, Mohamed Abd El-Latif, has announced that the ministry is working on a new law to license teachers, which is expected to be presented to the House of Representatives soon. This move has been widely welcomed by teachers, as it comes after the recommendations of the Egypt 2026 forum, which called for the implementation of such a law to develop the education system and improve teachers' performance.
The proposed licensing system will require teachers to meet certain standards, including academic and pedagogical qualifications, professional and psychological tests, and continuous practical training. Experts and educators have emphasized the importance of setting clear and fair criteria for obtaining a license, which will be linked to financial and professional benefits. This, they argue, will help improve teachers' living and working conditions.
Mohamed Saad, a former deputy minister of education, stressed that pedagogical qualification is a crucial requirement for obtaining a teaching license. He suggested that the license could be issued by the Professional Academy for Teachers or another entity designated by the law. Saad also emphasized the need for a comprehensive evaluation of teachers' abilities, including personal interviews, psychological tests, and assessment of their ability to manage classroom situations.
The proposed system has raised questions about its scope and the categories of teachers who will be affected. Experts argue that the license should be mandatory for all teachers, including those working in private schools. They also stress the importance of providing a suitable working environment that enables teachers to perform their duties effectively.
Bileg Badwi, former director general of experimental education and private education at the Qalyubia Education Directorate, emphasized that a teaching license is essential to ensure the quality of education and protect students. He argued that teaching should be considered a specialized profession with clear standards and regulations, rather than just a job requiring a university degree.
The introduction of the licensing system is seen as a step towards improving the status of teachers and enhancing their role in society. Experts believe that this move will help reduce the phenomenon of private tutoring and promote a culture of respect for teachers. However, they also acknowledge the challenges that may arise during the implementation process.
The Egyptian government aims to develop the education sector and improve the quality of education through various initiatives, including the introduction of the new licensing system for teachers. The success of this initiative will depend on its effective implementation and the support provided to teachers to help them meet the required standards.
Key points
- The new licensing system aims to improve teachers' performance and the quality of education in Egypt.
- The system will require teachers to meet specific standards, including academic and pedagogical qualifications, professional and psychological tests, and continuous practical training.
- The introduction of the licensing system is expected to enhance the status of teachers and promote a culture of respect for the profession.
