Lesotho Highlights Teacher Shortage as World Celebrates Teachers Day

As the world observed Teachers Day on October 5, the Lesotho Association of Teachers (LAT) Secretary General, Mr. Letsatsi Ntsibolane, highlighted the persistent global shortage of teachers. He noted that Africa faces the most urgent need, with Education International reporting that of the 50 million teachers required worldwide, 15 million are needed in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Focusing on Lesotho, Mr. Ntsibolane explained that while many teachers graduate annually, a significant number do not enter classrooms due to limited job opportunities. “Most of them work in different professions due to job scarcity. In Lesotho alone, with a population of 2.2 million, only 13,400 teachers are employed by the government. Teachers are wanted,” he emphasized.

The LAT Secretary General linked the shortage to this year’s Teachers Day theme, “Together for teachers, together for tomorrow,” describing it as a call for governments to fully support the teaching profession. Strengthening support for teachers, he noted, is essential to achieving quality and universal education and meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mr. Ntsibolane also extended congratulations to teachers locally and internationally, acknowledging their critical role in shaping future leaders.

Locally, teachers have been celebrating since Friday, with events coinciding with Lesotho’s 59th Independence Day. This year follows the 30th graduation ceremony at Lesotho College of Education (LCE) on September 25-26, where 1,349 graduates received certificates, marking the institution’s 50th anniversary.

Teachers Day, observed annually on October 5, was established by UNESCO, ILO, and Education International. It commemorates the 1966 ILO/UNESCO recommendation on the status of teachers and serves to recognize their contributions worldwide.

The observance in Lesotho highlighted both the achievements of the country’s teachers and the urgent need to address shortages to strengthen the education sector and secure the nation’s future.