Teacher Motivation in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia

Abstract

This book is based on research which explored teacher motivation and incentive issues in 12 countries in South Asia and Sub-Sahara Africa. The book addresses four main questions: (1) To what extent is there a problem of poor motivation among teachers in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia? Does this amount to a 'crisis', as has been suggested by some observers? (2) If so, what are the main reasons for poor teacher motivation? (3) How do poor motivation and incentives affect teacher performance and the overall effectiveness of national education systems? and finally (4) What should be done to ensure that teachers are adequately motivated? Based on the evidence from the research, the authors argue for better incentives for rural teachers and that unless this is done, the large majority of children who live in rural areas will continue to receive poor quality education. Also, despite some improvements in pay in recent years in some countries, most primary school teachers, particularly in relatively high-cost urban centres are simply unable to meet their basic household needs. It argues for attractive career structures for primary school teachers and improvements in teacher accountability to school management and to parents and the community.

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