MATLHOMOLA FOE
MATLHOMOLA FOE
Barrier: Many schools do not have enough classrooms, proper toilets, or basic supplies like
chairs and desks. This can make it hard for students to learn.
Solutions:
Government investment in school facilities: the government can allocate a significant portion
of the national budget to build and maintain schools. This includes constructing new
classrooms, providing proper sanitation facilities, and ensuring schools are safe and well
equipped. Accountability in spending this money in building and maintaining schools is
crucial to ensure that public funds are used effectively and fore their intended purpose.
2 Language Barriers
Barrier: Students may struggle to learn if the language of instruction is different from their
home language, leading to confusion and poor understanding.
Solutions:
Localized teaching materials: instead of using textbooks that are only in English, schools can
provide bilingual textbooks where the content is available in both English and Setswana or
any native language like Sesarwa, Ikalanga and Sekgalagadi. This makes it easier for students
to understand difficult concepts in their native language.
For example develop language learning application that helps learners improve their language
skills through reading and listening. It could include Setswana texts or stories to improve
literacy.
Teacher training in language skills: teachers should be trained to work effectively with
students who speak different languages. Professional development programs could focus on
language acquisition strategies and teaching in multilingual classrooms.
3. Lack of Resources/ inadequate learning materials refers to the insufficient or inadequate
supply of material, tools needed to provide quality education. Without proper textbooks,
computers, stationery.
Solutions:
- Resource Sharing Networks: Schools can collaborate with others in their district or region to
share resources. For instance, one school may have extra computers, while another has more
textbook. Sharing these resources can make them more accessible for all students
Technology and digital resources: schools can take advantage of freely available online
resources like digital textbooks, educational videos, and free lesson plans. This helps provide
access to materials that might otherwise be too expensive.
Fundraising and Grants: Organize fundraising campaigns or apply for grants to acquire
necessary educational resources (e.g., securing grants for science lab equipment).
Explanation: Vandalism in schools can lead to damaged property, disrupting the learning
environment and requiring costly repairs.
Solutions:
Strict consequences: knowing that there will be serious consequences for vandalism can deter
students from engaging in such behavior. Strict consequences act as a warning, letting
students understand that their actions will not be tolerated.
- Increased Security Measures: Install security cameras and improve lighting around school
premises to deter vandalism (e.g., hiring security personnel during school hours).
5. High student teacher ratio means there are too many students for each teacher to handle
effectively. For example, if a teacher is responsible for 40 students, it becomes difficult for
them to give each student the attention they need.
Solutions
Hiring more teachers: hiring more teachers would help reduce the number of students per
teacher, ensuring more personalized attention. Example if a class of 40 students is divided
into two groups, each teacher can focus on a smaller group, improving engagement and
learning outcomes.
Use of technology: integrating technology into lessons, such as educational apps or online
learning platforms, can allow teachers to engage more students at once and track their
progress
Use of google classroom allowing teachers to share assignments, resources and lectures
online, while students can submit their work digitally, participate in discussions, and track
their grades.
Lack of parental involvement: when parents do not actively participate in their children’s
education.
Solutions
Use technology to foster communication: create an app or platform where parents can easily
communicate with teachers, track their child’s progress, and access school resource 24/7. This
would make it more convenient for busy parents to stay involved.
Create a WhatsApp group where parents receive real time updates, have direct chat with
teachers and can attend virtual parents-teacher meetings at their convenience.
Collaborate with local influencers, sport figures or celebrities who are respected in the
community to promote the importance of parental involvement in education. This could
engage parents who might not typically attend school events.