2. In 1998, the government instituted structural adjustment programmes
recommended by the World Bank and IMF. A direct consequence of this was a
freeze on the employment of teachers by the Teachers Service Commission. This
resulted in a significant shortage of teachers. Since 2003, the government has
made efforts to address this shortage. However, to date, there is a need for over
60,000 teachers to fill the gaps in the school system.
3. The government reliance on donor funding means that local priorities are not
necessarily dealt with. As already noted, research and development activities are
less funded than administrative and recurrent costs. Thus, for instance, teachers are
paid salaries to implement the same old curriculum.
4. Some socio-cultural practices and absolute poverty in many areas in the country
affect full participation of learners in the school system. Although enrollment rates
have improved, especially for girls, many communities still hold back their
children either due to cultural reasons - like the presumed vanity of educating the
girl-child, or economic reasons - like engaging the children wage learning
activities to supplement the family income.