By Jones Gadama
In a significant update, approximately 85% of Malawi’s teachers have successfully registered with the Teachers Council of Malawi, marking a crucial milestone in the government’s efforts to professionalize the teaching profession. According to Prof. Golden Msilimba, Director of Quality Assurance in the Ministry of Education, out of the 104,965 registered teachers, about 48% have been licensed to date.
The registration and licensing process, made mandatory by the government in 2024, aims to ensure that all teachers in the country meet the required standards and qualifications.
The deadline for registration and licensing was set for the end of March 2025.
Initially, the registration process was marred by network challenges, which have since been rectified, according to Prof. Msilimba.
This development has paved the way for a smoother registration and licensing process, enabling more teachers to comply with the requirements.
The Teachers Council of Malawi, established in 2013, is responsible for overseeing teacher registration, licensing, and upholding teaching standards.
The council’s Registration and Licensing Directorate plays a pivotal role in ensuring that teachers meet the necessary qualifications and adhere to professional standards.
As of September 2024, over 65,000 teachers had received their teaching licenses, with the Ministry of Education extending the registration period to December 31, 2024, to accommodate more teachers.
The government’s efforts to professionalize the teaching profession are part of its broader strategy to improve the quality of education in Malawi.
By ensuring that all teachers are registered and licensed, the government aims to enhance the overall quality of teaching and learning in the country.
As the deadline for registration and licensing approaches, it remains to be seen how many more teachers will comply with the requirements.
However, with the network challenges now rectified, the process is expected to move more smoothly, enabling more teachers to register and obtain their licenses.
The development is a significant step forward for Malawi’s education sector, and the government’s commitment to improving the quality of education is a positive sign for the country’s future.
