The just-concluded Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher recruitment in Bomet County has left many science teacher applicants disappointed due to stiff competition and limited vacancies. Data from various sub-counties reveals the overwhelming demand for positions, which far exceeded the available slots.
In Sotik Sub-county, 385 science teachers applied, but only 120 were selected, leaving a significant majority without placement. This translates to a selection rate of approximately 31%.
Chepalungu Sub-county witnessed 314 applicants vying for the limited slots, with 136 teachers securing positions, marking a recruitment success rate of 43%.
Konoin Sub-county had 180 science teacher applicants, but only 101 were recruited, representing 56% of the candidates.
Bomet Central faced a similar situation, with 272 science teachers applying but only 83 making it through, resulting in a success rate of just 31%.
In Bomet East, 199 teachers applied for science positions, and 83 were successful, giving an acceptance rate of 42%.
The recruitment has sparked conversations about the need for more vacancies to accommodate the growing number of qualified teachers. Education stakeholders are calling for increased funding and planning to meet the demands of Junior Secondary Schools in the county.
