# Can Intoxicated Teachers Sink the Ship of Education in Ethiopia?

When witnessing the sight of countless graduates in Gambella region, holding diplomas but remaining unemployed and disconnected from their acquired knowledge, a deep sense of shock sets in. What causes this widespread inability to materialize the skills obtained through years of schooling? As I delve into the factors contributing to the failure of grade 12 students in Ethiopia, one glaring issue emerges: alcoholism.

The presence of intoxicated teachers within classrooms is a grave matter that cannot be overlooked. In my own experience as a student in Ethiopia, I recall instances where teachers arrived drunk, unable to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. This dysfunctional practice is a symptom of the broader problem lurking within the corrupted educational system itself.

To address the ongoing issue, it is imperative to focus on the corruption prevalent within the Ministry of Education in Ethiopia. Although strides have been made under the leadership of Dr. Abiy, the Gambella region remains ensnared in poverty and suffers from a severely lacking educational system. Shockingly, there are instances where teachers spend a mere 2-3 hours in the classroom while still receiving their monthly salaries. This dire situation manifests itself in areas like Warada Jekow, where students attend school for just a fraction of the day and return home without any lessons due to the absence of teachers. As graduates plunge into uncertainty, it becomes evident that urgent and substantial reforms are necessary.

Drawing upon my personal experience as a teacher in Egypt from 2005-2010, a stark contrast emerges. In Australia, where I currently reside, teaching under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Reflecting on my time as both a student and an educator, I find it inconceivable to comprehend how a visibly intoxicated teacher can effectively impart knowledge to students. The ability to deliver a coherent lecture and ensure the core messages are understood becomes compromised under such circumstances.

This degradation of teaching quality contributes to the plight of thousands of students in Gambella, leading to their failure in the Ethiopian General Secondary Education Certificate Examination (EGSECE). It is a disservice to education itself when teachers fail to recognize the gravity of their role. They tarnish both their own reputation and undermine the fundamental purpose of education.

Education should serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for students to reach their full potential. Just as a ship needs a steady captain to navigate rough waters, the educational system requires dedicated and responsible teachers to steer students towards success. The presence of intoxicated teachers in the classroom is like a ship adrift without a compass, leading to educational failure.

Imagine the educational journey as a road trip. A sober and attentive teacher behind the wheel guides students smoothly through the various subjects, ensuring they reach their destination of knowledge and understanding. However, an intoxicated teacher disrupts this journey, swerving dangerously from lane to lane, disregarding road signs, and ultimately jeopardizing the students' chance of reaching their intended educational destination.

The Ethiopian educational system, particularly in regions like Gambella, is already struggling to overcome various obstacles. The presence of intoxicated teachers worsens the situation, creating a toxic environment where learning becomes a distant aspiration. Imagine trying to learn in a classroom where the teacher, who should be the source of knowledge and inspiration, is stumbling through the lesson, slurring words, and unable to stay focused. Just as a driver under the influence endangers the lives of passengers in a car, an intoxicated teacher endangers the educational journey of their students.

We m

ust not allow the failure of the educational system to be fueled by the irresponsible actions of a few. It is crucial that immediate action is taken to weed out this behavior and restore the integrity and effectiveness of education in Ethiopia. Our students deserve nothing less than dedicated, professional, and sober teachers who will guide them towards a brighter future.

In this journey of education, teachers serve as guides, mentors, and navigators for students. They hold the responsibility of providing a clear path to knowledge, just as a GPS guides travelers to their desired destination. However, if the GPS malfunctions or is intentionally misused, the travelers may end up lost and disoriented. Similarly, when teachers come to class intoxicated, they not only fail to provide the necessary guidance but also mislead and confuse students, leaving them lost in a sea of uncertainty.

Education is a vessel that carries students towards their dreams and aspirations. A well-equipped and competent crew, consisting of dedicated teachers, ensures a smooth voyage. But when the crew is intoxicated, the ship becomes unstable, putting the educational journey at risk. It is essential to recognize the importance of responsible and sober teachers who can navigate students towards success, just as a steady captain steers a ship to safe harbor.

**FAQs:**

1. Q: How widespread is the problem of intoxicated teachers in Ethiopia?

A: While it is difficult to quantify the exact extent, the issue has been observed in various regions, including Gambella.

2. Q: Are there any existing measures to address alcoholism among teachers?

A: Efforts have been made under the leadership of Dr. Abiy, but there is a need for more substantial reforms and consistent enforcement.

3. Q: How does the presence of intoxicated teachers impact students' academic performance?

A: Intoxicated teachers undermine the learning environment, hindering students' ability to grasp concepts and impeding their educational progress.

4. Q: What can individuals do to address this issue?

A: Raising awareness, advocating for reforms, and supporting organizations working towards educational improvements are crucial steps individuals can take.

5. Q: Are there any success stories of regions successfully combating this problem?

A: While progress has been made, it is a complex issue that requires comprehensive reforms at both the systemic and individual levels.

Prepared By Ding Door