African teachers are hungry for community

We’ve been connecting with African educators for a few years now, and one thing is clear - teachers across the continent have much more in common than they probably believe. 

They share the desire to take meaningful journeys with each of their students. They are concerned that the curriculums are dated and not addressing the needs of the 21st century African child. 

They grapple with challenges every day, from early school leaving due to social circumstance and cultural influences, among others.  

Add to this the loneliness of teachers. This might seem counterintuitive at first. After all, you’re surrounded by students. But what many teachers miss is a sense of community and a personal learning network of their own. 

Being part of a teaching community is important for many reasons, including personal well being, professional development and career longevity.

Why are we creating communities for African teachers? 

Support

Communities, no matter whether they’re professional, personal, advocacy-based, or other, provide a safe space, where members can share challenges, ideas and solutions. 

Peer-to-peer collaboration

Communities provide an excellent place to share resources, ideas and tips for the classroom. It helps keep classes fresh and interesting for both students and teachers. 

Accountability 

We all make resolutions and sometimes we may share them. For teachers, taking the gravitas of the role they play into consideration, having accountability partners can be enormously helpful when it comes to accountability.  

Supporting those new to the profession

New teachers in their first or second year of teaching often feel lost at sea. When you’re faced with new questions and learning challenges, it’s important to have someone to turn to when you’re struggling. 

When teachers feel more supported and valued, they’ll feel happier in their roles.

Explore some of the fast growing communities on A Better Africa.