Diploma teachers urged to upgrade qualifications before seeking government jobs

Malawi’s Ministry of Education has advised unemployed diploma teachers to pursue bachelor’s degrees before applying for government teaching positions, saying current recruitment requirements no longer accommodate diploma holders for Grade I teaching posts.

In a letter dated July 10, 2026, addressed to the Forum for Unemployed Diploma Teachers (FUDT), Secretary for Education Ken Ndala said the minimum qualification for recruitment into secondary school teaching positions is now a Bachelor of Education degree or its equivalent.

Ndala explained that recruiting diploma holders would be contrary to the provisions of the current Establishment Warrant, which outlines the qualifications required for new entrants into the teaching profession.

However, the ministry assured teachers who were recruited when diploma qualifications were still accepted that their employment remains secure.

According to the ministry, such teachers will continue to be eligible for promotion provided they meet the prescribed requirements.

The ministry has also encouraged serving diploma teachers to upgrade their qualifications to align with current standards and enhance their career prospects.

On proposals submitted by FUDT, including balanced recruitment, qualification upgrading opportunities and the deployment of diploma teachers to schools facing staff shortages, the ministry said the suggestions will be considered during ongoing policy review processes aimed at strengthening the country’s teaching workforce.