Matuga MP Kassim Sawa Tandaza has expressed concern over the acute shortage of Science teachers in Kwale County.
Tandaza lamented that the scarcity of qualified teachers in subjects such as Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics has hugely affected students’ performance and career prospects in science-related fields.
The MP said despite efforts by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to recruit educators nationwide, Kwale County often misses out on its fair share of new recruits.
“Most slots meant for Kwale during the teacher recruitment exercise are forced to be reallocated to other regions because we lack enough qualified candidates specialising in Science subjects,” he said.
Tandaza said that the county’s teaching workforce is predominantly composed of educators specialising in arts and humanities.
He said the majority of teachers in the region are trained in Kiswahili, Islamic Religious Education (IRE), and History, leaving a glaring gap in the teaching of Science subjects.
Tandaza said the situation is hindering the region’s academic and economic progress and does not only limit students’ opportunities to excel in science but also impacts their ability to compete for lucrative careers in technology, engineering, and medicine.
STEM education
Tandaza spoke during a bursary issuance exercise at Kwale Headquarters in Matuga constituency.
His remarks come amid a nationwide push to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Kenya.
The MP urged students to cultivate an interest in science subjects and consider pursuing careers in the teaching profession to help address the shortage.
He said that science teachers are in high demand, making teaching a practical and rewarding career choice.
“It would be beneficial for students to prioritize teaching over careers that might leave them struggling to secure employment for years,” he said.
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Tandaza said that becoming Science teachers, students will not only secure their future but also contribute to solving a pressing issue in the education system.
He advised young learners to take advantage of the county and other bursary opportunities to excel in their academics and make a change in life.
Tandaza also encouraged the youth to make the most of opportunities offered by Technical Vocational and Training (TVET) colleges to gain practical, hands-on skills that are in high demand in today’s job market.
He said that TVET institutions provide a pathway to self-reliance and economic empowerment, equipping young people with skills that can lead to sustainable livelihoods.
Right path
The lawmaker called on parents to play a more active role in guiding their children toward productive and meaningful pursuits.
“Parents must take responsibility and lead their children on the right path instead of allowing them to fall into the traps of drug abuse and criminal activities,” said Tandaza.
He said it is important for parents to instil discipline, values, and ambition in youth to help them make positive contributions to society.
The MP stressed that education and vocational training are key to combating vices and building a brighter future for the community.
He said with proper guidance and support; youth can avoid destructive habits and instead focus on building skills and careers that will uplift their lives and society as a whole.
By Shaban Omar
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