NAQEZ Calls For An Investigation Into The Recruitment Of 3,000 Teachers

The National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) has demanded that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Zambia Police investigate the suspicious circumstances under which over 3,000 teachers were recruited by the Teaching Service Commission.

NAQEZ's Executive Director, Aaron Chansa told the media that it is alarming that the Teaching Service Commission is expressing ignorance over the matter which he described as a pure scandal. Mr. Chansa added that it is surprising the ACC and the Police have remained silent over such a widely reported, contentious matter.

“We are demanding that ACC and Police help this country by professionally and swiftly investigating this matter as a lot of people have been affected,” he said.

He stressed that a thorough investigation must be conducted to ascertain the true nature of these recruitments so that those found guilty may be prosecuted.

Mr. Chansa also brought to the media’s attention several other corruption allegations in teacher recruitment, promotions, and replacements which he believes require serious attention and further investigation.

He stated that these issues have tarnished the image of the teaching profession in Zambia and thus have affected the morale of teachers in the country.

Mr. Chansa suggested that going forward NAQEZ would like to see transparent and accountable teacher recruitment in the Ministry of Education.

“There is a need for clear policies which will facilitate and promote a favourable environment for recruiting teachers,” he said. 

Mr. Chansa made clear that if transparency is not maintained, scandals will continue to plague The Ministry of Education which will prevent necessary growth in Zambian teaching and education more broadly.