A recent study by the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) has revealed that teachers in refugee camps in Tanzania face significant challenges, including low pay and high workloads. The study found that around 87 percent of teachers in refugee camps earn less than Sh9,000 per month, compared to 71.4 percent of teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) who earn an average monthly salary of Sh30,000.
The study also highlighted a severe shortage of female teachers in refugee camp schools, particularly in Garissa and Turkana counties, where they account for less than 10 percent of educators. This skewed ratio creates a gender inequality gap, denying girls access to female role models and safe learning environments. The lack of female teachers negatively impacts not only the well-being of girls but also their educational pursuits.
Despite the challenges, teachers in refugee camps have shown a high level of commitment to their work, with 90 percent of them dedicated to imparting knowledge to children who are eager for an education. The study noted that most refugee teachers (92 percent) are employed on one-year contracts, unlike TSC employees, who are hired on permanent, pensionable terms. This highlights the precarious nature of their employment.
The study, which surveyed 927 teachers in 74 schools, also found that refugee camp school teachers manage an average of 90 learners per class, with a quarter teaching more than 100 learners. In contrast, host community schools have an average of approximately 56 learners per class. The report emphasized the need for improved working conditions and professional recognition for refugee teachers.
The APHRC study was conducted in refugee camps and surrounding host communities in Tanzania. The researchers used a concurrent mixed-methods approach, involving 105 qualitative participants through interviews and 11 focus group discussions. The study's findings have significant implications for the education sector, particularly in terms of addressing the challenges faced by refugee teachers.
Education stakeholders, including the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), have called for the government to establish formal schools in refugee camps to ensure minimum learning conditions are provided for children displaced by war, persecution, or inter-clan clashes. They also emphasized the need for improved working conditions and professional recognition for refugee teachers.
The study's recommendations include the need for the government, NGOs, and unions to work together to address the challenges faced by refugee teachers and learners. The stakeholders also emphasized the importance of creating a conducive learning and teaching environment in refugee camps, which have existed for decades. By addressing these challenges, the education sector can work towards providing quality education for all learners, regardless of their background or location.
Key points
- 9 out of 10 teachers in refugee camps earn less than Sh9,000 monthly.
- Female teachers account for less than 10 percent of educators in refugee camp schools in Garissa and Turkana counties.
- Despite challenges, teachers in refugee camps have one of the highest levels of commitment to their work, at 90 percent.
