H.E. Prof. Peter K. Ngure, Kenya’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, highlighted Kenya’s steady progress in teacher development during the Global Priority Africa Dialogue, held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 16 September 2026.
The dialogue provided an opportunity to reflect on the state of the teaching profession in Africa, including challenges related to teacher shortages, recruitment, retention, working conditions and motivation.
Discussions also looked ahead to the launch of the Global Report on Teachers, titled “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession and Advancing Its Status,” scheduled for World Teachers’ Day on 5 October 2026.
Africa continues to face a significant shortage of teachers, with an estimated 15 million additional teachers needed. Teacher attrition remains an important challenge, while concerns over compensation and working conditions continue to affect the profession.
Kenya was highlighted among African countries making progress in teacher recruitment. The country has recruited approximately 100,000 teachers over the past two years, demonstrating efforts to strengthen its education workforce and respond to growing demand.
Reflecting on the importance of investing in teachers, Prof. Ngure underscored their central role in education and national development.
“Teachers are the bedrock of human capital development, and they deserve more support.”
Kenya’s participation in the Global Priority Africa Dialogue reflects the country’s continued engagement with UNESCO on education and teacher development, while contributing to broader discussions on strengthening and supporting the teaching profession across Africa.
