Preparing the Teacher to Meet the Challenges of a Changing World

In this 21st Century there has been changes in almost all the aspects of human endeavour. This has created numerous challenges which need to be tackled by the current educational systems of all nations. If robust plans are not put in place to educate the upcoming generation to effectively function and develop their societies, continuity of the succeeding generations may be hampered. The shear complexities of these challenges make learning by simple rote memory and regurgitation of facts inadequate for effective living. Identified 21st Century literacies and survival skills, such as competencies in collaboration, communication, adaptations, ability to access, analyse and use information, among other, must be developed and reinforced in learners for effective participation in today’s knowledge economy. This paper emphasizes that teachers cannot give what they do not have. Therefore a call is made to examine and review teacher preparatory programmes and other support arrangements in the educational system, to adequately prepare teachers for their emerging roles. Keywords: Preparing the Teacher, Challenges, Changing World