Bese Saka Professional Pathways is an AISA initiative aimed at growing the professional development and career mobility of host nation educators within AISA member schools.

Bese Saka is a traditional Adinkra symbol from Ghana, often referred to as the “pouch of kola nuts”, a visual representation originating from the Akan people. The Bese Saka symbol conveys the idea of financial security, abundance, unity, and the importance of careful planning and hard work in achieving prosperity. In broader terms, it symbolizes the idea that wise investment and management of resources, time, and energy will provide numerous benefits in the future. The Bese Saka symbol is a powerful representation of the importance of diligence and foresight in achieving success in life. If we work hard together, plan well, and utilize our resources well, then we can all help each other pursue our goals.

Bese Saka Professional Pathways was initiated by the DEIJ efforts of Cecê Ovelar at the International School of Dakar (ISD), in partnership with AISA and the Bese Saka Design Team. AISA would like to thank each member of the Design Team which included:

• Aïssata Dia, Science Teacher, International School of Dakar
• Alpana Mukherjee, Head of Secondary, Al-Rayan International School
• Anthony Mugiluri, Middle School Teaching Assistant, International School of Kenya
• Calley Connelly, ES Principal, ICS Addis Ababa
• Dorcas Addo, Homeroom Facilitator, Al-Rayan International School
• Kareen Laplanche, Finance & Operations Manager, The American School of Kinshasa
• Lesley Tait, Head of School, Lincoln Community School
• Likonelo Majara Ntsaoana, Teacher, American International School of Lesotho
• Nina Uhuru, International School of Kenya
• Patrick Ndonga Che, American School of Douala, Deputy Director
• Seren Davis, Secondary School Principal, International School of Uganda

Our Why

The Bese Saka Design Team identified numerous challenges that limit the career advancement of host nation educators. These include:

• The high cost and limited access to funding for internationally recognized teacher certification.
• Prohibitive visa processes and local labor laws that limit international mobility.
• Historically discriminatory practices that favor international hires.
• Low confidence in applying for new roles.
• Difficulty in gaining international experience.
• Lack of understanding of the recruitment process and, poor transparency within schools in hiring and remuneration policies.

Thus, many host nation educators face challenges obtaining the preferred teaching qualifications, attending international school job fairs, and gaining international experience. Furthermore, the lack of access to professional development programs, specifically designed for host nation educators, hinders their professional development and career trajectory.

Our Solution

Bese Saka aims to advance African diversity and talent within AISA schools by developing opportunities to overcome the barriers faced by host nation teachers. Proposed interventions include:

1. Increase access to teacher certification
2. Recruitment support
3. Mentorship program
4. School exchange program
5. Professional Development opportunities.

AISA, with continued support from the Bese Saka Design Team, will work throughout the 2024-25 academic year to develop the proposed initiatives and aims to pilot these in 2025-26.

For more information, contact AISA’s Wellbeing for All Senior Program Coordinator, Chanel Worsteling at chanel@aisa.or.ke.