Challenges Faced by Newly Appointed Teachers in Pakistani Schools: A Qualitative Study Challenges Faced by Newly Appointed Teachers in Pakistani Schools: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Newly appointed teachers in Pakistani schools face numerous challenges that hinder their ability to effectively perform their duties. Financial Constraints are a significant issue, as teachers receive low salaries, leading to financial instability and demotivation. This forces many teachers to seek alternative sources of income, compromising their professional integrity. Lack of Merit-Based Appointments is another major challenge, as appointments, transfers, and promotions are often influenced by nepotism, corruption, and political affiliations rather than merit. This creates an unfair environment where competent teachers are overlooked, and incompetent ones are favored. Social Recognition is also a concern, as teaching is not considered a prestigious profession in Pakistan, unlike in other developed countries. Teachers face low social status, and their profession is often viewed as less attractive than others, such as medicine or engineering.
Professional Development Opportunities are scarce, leaving teachers without access to ongoing training and education. This limits their ability to update their skills and knowledge, ultimately affecting the quality of education. Work Environment issues, including overburdened workloads, inadequate resources, and poor infrastructure, also affect teachers' performance. Additionally, Political Interference in educational institutions creates an unfavorable work environment, where teachers are often forced to prioritize political agendas over educational goals. To address these challenges, it is essential to create an environment of trust, strengthen accountability mechanisms, provide teaching and learning resources, offer ongoing professional development opportunities, and ensure merit-based appointments and promotions.