Kuwait prioritizes local hiring to address teacher shortage

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KUWAIT CITY, April 20: Senior sources within the Ministry of Education revealed a strategic decision to address the shortage of teachers by prioritizing local contracts before resorting to external contracting committees. The move comes amid a surge in applications, exceeding 2,000, for fewer than 1,000 available positions in specialized fields announced for the upcoming academic year 2024-2025.

The ministry’s initiative aims to fill vacancies by appointing qualified candidates from within the national pool. Authorities are diligently sorting through applications to identify suitable candidates who meet the specified criteria. Those selected will commence their roles at the beginning of the next academic year.

Emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to nurturing national talent, the plan prioritizes recruitment from various segments of the local population, including Kuwaiti women, Gulf nationals, and Bidoun individuals, before considering expatriates. Furthermore, the opening of over 12 new schools next year underscores the urgency of securing adequate staffing.

While the Ministry of Education continues to receive applications for educational positions under local contracts, senior sources affirm the decision to address shortages within the national workforce before exploring external contracting options. The focus remains on meeting staffing needs through local recruitment channels, with external contracting committees being considered only if internal quotas remain unfilled.

The ministry’s recruitment drive encompasses 15 specialized fields, with particular emphasis on Islamic studies, Arabic, English, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science. Requirements include prior experience, with exemptions granted to certain categories of applicants.

As preparations for the upcoming academic year progress, the Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education through strategic workforce planning and resource allocation.

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