Teaching in Africa

Teaching in Africa – Asian College of Teachers (ACT)

Africa has one of the third largest deserts in the world the “Sahara Desert” and one of the largest rivers called the “Nile river”. It also has beautiful landscapes, mountains, beaches and obviously, it’s filled with green rainforest.  You can witness the Mediterranean type of climate with sub-tropical temperatures, filled with history and diversified cultures in Africa.

The well-trained teacher shortage is at the core of Africa’s current education emergency. There are 54 recognised countries in Africa. When we hear the name Africa, jungle safari, roars of lions, dense jungles, and full of wildlife come to our mind automatically, right? However, Africa has much more to offer that many do not know about. With a population of around 1.4 billion, Africa is a continent that seems like a one-stop destination. Africa overall is understaffed and the number of international schools is very less.

To combat this scenario of the education system, the African government wants proficient teachers to come and teach their people to increase their literacy rate. Most of the teaching opportunities in Africa are voluntary, which makes the competition of teaching here slightly less compared to other countries and places.

Updated Educational Requirements to Teach in Africa

• A bachelor's degree (at least) from a recognized university with a bachelor's degree
• A globally recognized 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course (for teaching English)
• Near native English proficiency
• There’s no age limit for teaching
• Clean criminal background check
• Have a valid passport and visa
• Positive medical check-up results
• Past teaching experience can be beneficial
• Passport-size photograph with clear background and you should not be wearing sunglasses or a hat

Updated Visa Requirements for Teaching in Africa

Every country in Africa has its own visa requirements, so they may vary according to the country you may choose. Educators generally opt for a tourist visa or temporary visa for short-term contracts or voluntary placement to get a job in Africa. Because getting a full-time work visa is very hard to get and it generally requires a 12-month contract as well.

If you are planning to work as an educator for more than a year then your employers may help you to get a working visa with a 12-month contract and help you to deal with all the necessary paperwork as well.

However, make sure you have all the required documents with you like your university bachelor’s degree, TEFL certificate (for teaching English), English fluency level, and teaching experience if you have any. Working visa cost varies and depends upon the factor that how long you’re staying there.

In April 2022, South Africa announced introducing a digital nomad visa but it is not active yet. Africa is also a striking place for digital nomads and remote workers.

Major Types of Teaching Jobs in Africa

There are several types of working opportunities for expats from all over the world in Africa - --

Volunteer Teaching

Volunteering to teach in Africa is an enlightening and rewarding experience. As a trained and certified teacher or educator, you will get the opportunity to help children in rural areas, while also learning about their culture and way of life. You may be placed in public, private, or religious schools. You can also support the administration and be part of cleaning campaigns.

As a teaching volunteer in Africa, you may teach English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, geography, mathematics, physical education and history at community schools. Sometimes, you also may be assigned to teach math, science, computer literacy, or various other subjects. You will also be challenged with providing quality instruction to students who may not always have access to educational resources or motivated parents-but it's worth it!

Updated Requirements for Volunteer Teaching in Africa

• You need to have a bachelor’s degree
• English language skills for teaching English
• Prior teaching experience will be advantageous
• You don’t require any TEFL/TESOL certificate though but having it could be beneficial certainly
• Requires you to work for 4-6hrs (Mon-Fri)
• There’s no age limit
• You need to purchase travel insurance

You will get teaching volunteer projects opportunities like –

• Senegal
• Sierra Leone teaching volunteer project
• Togo English teaching volunteering
• Uganda teaching volunteer project
• Tanzania teaching volunteer project
• Kenya teaching volunteer project
• Zimbabwe teaching volunteer project
• Zanzibar teaching volunteer work
• Botswana teaching volunteer project
• Madagascar teaching volunteer program
• Malawi teaching volunteer project
• Zambia teaching project
• Algeria teaching volunteer project
• Volunteer teaching English in Egypt
• Rwanda teaching volunteer project etc.

Teaching in International Schools in Africa

Working as an English teacher in an international school in Africa is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys enriching the lives of students internationally. International education institutions offer EFL and TEFL-certified teachers and educators exciting jobs to instruct students from around the world, helping them become bilingual and gain access to knowledge beyond cultural boundaries.

An experienced and well-certified TEFL teacher and educator can make a difference by influencing the development of international generations all over the continent. Please note, most of the international schools search for experienced and qualified teachers who can commit to 2+ years.

Teaching Requirements of International Schools in Africa

• Bachelor’s degree/ Master’s Degree
 
• A teaching license issued by the aspirant & home country
• At least two years of full-time teaching experience in a PK12 setting.
• A TEFL/TESOL certification
• Clean Criminal record
• A Master’s degree would be beneficial

Tutoring

If you are looking for ways to supplement your income as a teacher in Africa, offering private English tutoring can be an excellent option. With the influx of foreign nationals and business people into their countries, many parents are prioritizing their children's education, leading to an increased demand for private English lessons.

Similarly, increasing wealth has enabled some professionals to seek out native-speaking tutors for conversational practice. Tutoring can provide a steady source of additional income regardless of where you teach abroad!

Teaching Requirements for Becoming Tutor in Africa

• Bachelor’s degree/ Master’s degree 
• A teaching license issued by the aspirant & home country
• A TEFL/TESOL certification
• Timing for teaching depends on the contract with your learners and your availability

Educational Jobs in Africa

If you have the right and suitable credentials, you can become a Director of Development, Director of Resources, policy and communications expert, childcare centre manager, curriculum specialist, district education manager, Education or training advisor, education administrator, education consultant, e-learning developer, instructional designer, learning and development manager, prescribed book writer and editor, school principal, skills development practitioner, textbook and instructional materials sales rep, youth development practitioner and so on.

How to Land a Job in Africa?

Getting a job in the education sector can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. With the right resources, credentials and preparation, you can make it happen! Just remember to research job opportunities, obtain the necessary qualifications, apply for the job, and get a work visa. Additionally, make sure to prepare for the interview process to ensure that you make the best impression possible.

The first step is to research the different countries in Africa that offer educational opportunities. Once you have narrowed down your options, you will need to obtain a TEFL certification, if you want to teach English as a foreign language. This will allow you to apply for teaching English jobs in Africa. Next, you will need to find a job that suits your skills and interests. Once you have been hired, you will need to obtain a work visa. After that, you will be all set to start your new adventure as a teacher in Africa!

Where to Find Jobs

Finding a teaching job in Africa can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are several different avenues that you can explore to find the perfect role. For starters, you can look into the job portals of each country. Most of these portals are organized by region, so it makes it easier to find what you’re looking for. You can also search through social media channels and job postings on various websites.

Additionally, there are usually teaching job fairs held in various African cities throughout the year. These will provide you with a great opportunity to meet potential employers and learn more about the job opportunities available. Finally, you can also contact local teachers in the country to get more insight into the job market.

When to Apply for a Job?

After you have decided which country you would like to work in, it is time to apply for the job. The best time to do this is in the late fall and early winter. This is because most countries in Africa start their new teaching term in the spring, so you will want to make sure that you apply with enough time for the visa application process to be completed. Additionally, make sure to monitor the job postings regularly as new opportunities may pop up at any time.

Qualifications Needed

The qualifications needed to teach in Africa vary depending on the country and the specific job. Most ESL jobs will require at least a TEFL certification, usually valid for two years. Many employers may also require a college degree or other relevant teaching experience.

Additionally, some countries may also require a police clearance check or a medical exam. It’s important to make sure that you meet all the requirements prior to applying for the job.

The Application Process

Once you have found the job that fits your skills and interests, you will need to submit an application. Make sure that you fill out all the required fields accurately and completely. You may have to provide additional documentation such as your resume and/or a copy of your TEFL certification. Once you have completed the application, you will need to submit it to the employer.

The Interview Process

After the employer has reviewed your application, they may contact you for an interview. This interview will provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your language teaching skills, professionalism, and cultural understanding.

During the interview, you may be asked about your qualifications, experience, and reasons for wanting to work in Africa. It is important to be prepared to answer these questions honestly and confidently as this will be your chance to show that you are the right fit for the job.

Work Visa

The last step in the process is obtaining a work visa. This will require additional documentation and processing time. Depending on the country, the work visa process can vary and some countries may even require you to leave the country and apply in person. Once the visa process is successfully completed, you will be ready to start your teaching job in Africa!

Popular Places to Teach in Africa

Africa is a continent of immense opportunity. With a population of over 1.2 billion people, it is the world’s second most populous continent. It is also home to a large number of English speakers, making it an ideal place to teach English as a second language and for educators also.

There are many different countries in Africa, each with its own unique culture and attractions. So, where should you go to teach English in Africa? Here are the top 8 countries in Africa to teach English as a second language and for other education sector-related jobs!

Kenya

Kenya is one of the most popular countries in Africa to teach English as a second language and for other education sector-related jobs. This is thanks to its vibrant culture, its attractive climate, and its many attractions.

Aside from teaching English, there are also many opportunities for native English speakers to become involved in other aspects of Kenyan education such as teaching Science, Math, or Arts.

Moreover, Kenya is an English-speaking country and the majority of the population speaks the language. This makes it easier for teachers to teach English and have meaningful conversations with the locals. The cost of living in Kenya is also relatively low compared to other countries, making it an affordable place to teach English and for educators also.

Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and experience the country’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, which boasts sixteen national parks including the iconic Maasai Mara.

South Africa

South Africa is a great place to teach English as a second language and for other education sector-related jobs because of its rich culture, diversity, and abundance of employment opportunities. Not only does South Africa have a large number of English-speaking students, but there is also the added bonus of its rich cultural heritage.

Teaching in South Africa could include more than just the language, giving teachers the opportunity to expose students to a range of cultural activities. Aside from this, students in South Africa have access to some of the best schools, universities, and learning resources.

This means that teaching in South Africa or working in the education sector can be an opportunity to develop students’ skills and learn from some of the best in the world. Moreover, South Africa has an established tourism industry and numerous tourist attractions, which could provide a great source of income for Educators looking to supplement their wages.

Egypt

Egypt is one of the unique countries in Africa to teach English as a second language and for other education sector-related jobs due to its combination of ancient culture and modern cityscapes. Home to world-famous monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, Egypt is a popular destination for English learners.

As an Educator, you will get to explore some of the country’s fascinating history while also enjoying its beautiful beaches, deserts, and other attractions. Plus, while teaching English, you’ll benefit from a large number of English-speaking locals, aiding more meaningful conversations with students.

Moreover, the cost of living in Egypt is significantly lower than in other countries and the currency is highly stable, making it a great place to live and work for a sensible budget.

Morocco

Morocco is also an ideal destination for teaching English and for other education sector- related jobs, with its vibrant culture and bustling nightlife. It is also one of the most diverse countries in Africa, having been colonized by both Europeans and Arabic-speaking Muslims throughout its history.

This means that travellers and teachers alike can benefit from experiencing the city’s unique culture, through both its cuisine and architecture, while teaching English. Despite its small population, Morocco has significant English-speaking populations in some of its biggest cities, making it an ideal place to work as an educator.

In addition, there are plenty of resources available, both online and offline, to help enhance your teaching. If you’re looking for a unique educators experience, then Morocco is definitely worth considering.

Senegal

The Republic of Senegal is a West African country located on the Cape Verde Peninsula. It borders Mauritania, Mali, and Guinea-Bissau. Senegal is a former French colony and is now an independent country. The official language of Senegal is French, but there are also many other languages spoken in the country, including Wolof, Pulaar, Jola, and Mandinka.

Senegal is a great country for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) and for other education sector-related jobs as well. The people are friendly and welcoming, and there is a growing demand for English teachers. The country has a variety of different landscapes, from the bustling city of Dakar to the idyllic beaches of the Atlantic coast. In addition, with a TEFL certificate, you will be able to find work in a number of different settings, from private schools to language institutes. Senegal is a great place to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL).

The country has a strong infrastructure and a growing economy. There are many opportunities for TEFL teachers and for educators in Senegal, both in private language schools and in public schools. The salaries for TEFL teachers are also very competitive. If you're looking for an exciting and challenging place to teach English or to get other education-related jobs, then Senegal is a great option.

Algeria

Algeria is often overlooked as a destination to teach English and for an educator job role, but it has a great deal to offer. Aside from its stunning architecture, culture, and history, the country also has a sizeable population of English speakers, making it an ideal place to teach the language.

What’s more, it’s also a great place to experience some of North Africa’s best cuisine, with its signature dishes of Couscous and Tajine. Algeria also offers an abundance of resources for teachers, including plenty of books and other materials in English.

In addition, it’s significantly cheaper than other countries in the region, as well as Europe, making it an affordable place to live and work.

Ghana

Ghana is an increasingly popular destination for teaching English as a foreign language and education sector-related jobs, with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a great climate year-round. Not only does the country boast an ever-growing population of English speakers, but also its educational infrastructure is also second to none. As a result, Ghana’s educational system provides educators with access to plenty of resources, meaning they can make the most of it.

Additionally, Ghana boasts plenty of attractions both in its cities and in its countryside. Not only will this add to the educator-related job experience, but it is also a great opportunity to explore and enjoy the country’s unique culture and customs. In addition, it is a great place for students to bond and build friendships, which can help their language learning.

Namibia

Namibia is an often-overlooked destination to teach English. However, it has a growing population of native English speakers and plenty of opportunities for those looking to teach the language. It also boasts some of Africa’s most stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, meaning you can make the most of your time in the country.

What’s more, Carpe Diem Education, the country’s largest private language school, offers a range of teaching resources and support for those who choose to teach in Namibia. Plus, the cost of living in the country is incredibly low, meaning you can make the most of your education sector jobs at a minimal cost.

Botswana is one of Africa’s leading tourist economies with spectacular wildlife and iconic scenery. Cameroon is one of West Africa’s most diverse countries and is a mix of French and English-speaking areas. Eritrea is an Eastern African gem. Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in the world that has never been colonized. Teaching jobs in Guinea offer thrilling opportunities for adventurous teachers.

Malawi offers numerous international schools offer fantastic career opportunities. Backpacker’s paradise Mozambique also looking for both licensed and ESL teachers. Passionate educators can make a real impact by teaching in Sierra Leone. Teaching jobs in Sudan let educators from around the world to experience some of Africa's deepest hospitality. Tanzania is a land of extremes. Licensed teachers and ESL teachers are in demand in Tunisia. Uganda also offers fantastic career opportunities. Teaching in Zambia is also an exciting career opportunity.

Common Perks for Educators in Africa

While the working conditions and salary for educators in Africa can vary greatly, there are some perks that are pretty common across the continent. For example, many employers will provide their Educators with free housing or a housing allowance. This can be a huge benefit, as housing costs can be very high in Africa.

Other common perks for educators in Africa include free or discounted airfare, health insurance, and paid vacation days. These benefits can make teaching in Africa a very attractive option for many people. So, if you're thinking about getting a job in the education sector or teaching English in Africa, be sure to ask potential employers about the perks they offer.

Latest COVID-19 Measures and Updates

As we all know, COVID-19 is a lethal disease and even after the effect of COVID-19 is under control, we must be taking proper precautions, so that it should be under control.

Below, we have shared every country's COVID-19 protocols in Africa (thanks to giltedge.travel), 1st chart is covering Southern part of Africa and 2nd chart is covering Eastern part of Africa:

Southern Part of Africa

COUNTRY	SOUTH AFRICA	BOTSWANA	MOZAMBIQUE	NAMIBIA	ZAMBIA	ZIMBABWE
Airport borders open	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Land borders open	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
PCR testing prior to arrival	No	No	If not fully vaccinated, negative PCR test (hard copy)  72 hours from the time of departure	No	If not fully vaccinated, negative PCR test (hard copy) 72 hours from the time of departure	If not fully vaccinated, PCR test(hard copy) no older than 72 hours from the time of departure
PCR test on trusted travel platform	No	No	No	No	Advisabl e  trusted- travel	No
Vaccinati on	No	No	Proof of full vaccination (no booster required)  = no need for PCR test	No	Proof of full vaccinati on (no booster required )  = no need for PCR test	Proof of full vaccinatio n (no booster required)  = no need for PCR test
Tests on arrival	No	No	No	No	No	No
Vaccinati on OR PCR test for children 5-18 years	No	No	Not applicable to children under 11 years	No	Not applicab le to children under 12 years	Not applicable to children under 12 years
PCR test certificate necessary with COVID- 19 vaccinatio n	No	No	No	No	No	No
Quaranti ne on arrival	No (unless further testing on arrival produce s a positive test)	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)	No (unless further testing on arrival produce s a positive test)	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)
Other national COVID- 19 protocols	None	None	Social distancing /  masks in public	None	Social distancin g /  masks in public	Curfew - 12am - 5:30am Wearing masks is mandatory
Departur e requirem ents	Check with airline / destinati on country	Check with airline / destination country	Check with airline / destination country	Check with airline / destinati on country	Check with airline / destinati on country	Check with airline / destination country

Source:  giltedge.travel

Eastern part of Africa

COUNTRY	KENYA	RWANDA	TANZANIA	UGANDA
Airport borders open	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Land borders open	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
PCR testing prior to arrival	If not fully vaccinated, negative PCR test (hard copy)  72 hours from the time of departure	No	If not fully vaccinated, negative PCR test (hard copy)  72 hours from the time of departure	If not fully vaccinated, negative PCR test (hard copy)  72 hours from the time of departure
PCR test on trusted travel platform	No	No	None	No
Vaccinati on	Proof of full vaccination   = no need for PCR test	No	Proof of full vaccination (no booster required)  = no need for PCR test	Proof of full vaccination   = no need for PCR test
Tests on arrival	Unvaccinated = antigen test on arrival $30 pp	No	No	No
Vaccinati on OR PCR test for children 5-18 years	No	No	Yes	Yes
PCR test certificate necessary with COVID- 19 vaccinatio n	No	No	No	No
Quaranti ne on arrival	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)	No	No (unless further testing on arrival produces a positive test)	Negative PCR if unvaccinated 72 hours prior to departure
Other national COVID- 19 protocols	None	None	None	All travellers to complete a Traveller health questionnaire prior to arrival or upon arrival.
Departur e requirem ents	Check with airline / destination country	None	Check with airline / destination country	Check with airline / destination country

Lifestyle in Africa

Africa's climate is diverse. Zones near the equator have a tropical rain forest climate, with heavy rain along with high temperatures throughout the year. When you move away in either a northerly or southerly direction, the climate slowly develops to the more scorched conditions of the extensive Sahara and the Kalahari deserts. Football (soccer) is very popular in Africa.

African arts and crafts consist of stunning sculpture, weaving, beading, painting, pottery, jewellery, headgear and dress. Most of African cuisines include fruit, grain, vegetables, milk and meat products. Some of the very common maize/corn-based dish is pap, also called ugali, sadza, nsima, nchima, chima, poshto, tuozafi, ubgali, bugali, sokoro, sokora, depending on which part of the continent you are eating it.

Some Interesting Facts about Africa

The Himba tribe of northern Namibia cover themselves with a mixture of red soil and milk fat to protect their skin from the sun. Latuka tribe men still practice the tradition of kidnapping a woman whom they want to marry. The Algerian men of the Ahaggaren Tuareg group wear a blanket almost all the time, rarely taking them off when in a family group or while they travel. Africa is home to around one-third of the world's languages, anywhere between 1000 and 2000 languages.

Africa has the shortest coastline in spite of being the second largest continent in the world. Both the prime meridian (0 degrees longitude), and the equator (0 degrees latitude) cut across it. Africa has a pink lake in Senegal. Most of the world’s cocoa beans come from 4 West African countries: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon. As much as 95% of the world’s diamonds and 50% of the world’s gold comes from Africa.