Cameroon’s education system stands out in Africa because it operates on a dual language foundation. Both English and French are official languages, and this has given rise to two parallel systems: the Anglophone subsystem and the Francophone subsystem. Each follows its own curriculum and examination style, though there have been continuous efforts to promote bilingual learning across the country.
The school year typically runs from September through June. Primary and secondary schools work on a three-term calendar, while most universities and higher institutions organize learning into two semesters.
Despite having a large pool of teachers, the demand for more professionals remains high. Records from 2022 show about 114,000 teachers in primary schools and close to 115,000 in secondary schools. However, this still does not match the growing number of students, particularly in remote areas. To bridge this gap, the government has launched new recruitment drives, targeting thousands of additional teachers with a special focus on rural communities where shortages are most severe.
Teaching in Cameroon is also shaped by the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity. Classrooms often bring together learners from different language backgrounds, making bilingual skills an asset for teachers. While major cities such as Yaoundé and Douala provide more structured opportunities, schools in rural areas sometimes face challenges like overcrowded classes and limited facilities.
This guide will take you through the main teaching roles in Cameroon, the importance of bilingualism, the qualifications required, what to expect in terms of pay and living standards, and the realities, both opportunities and challenges, that define the teaching profession in the country.
Popular Teaching Roles Available in Cameroon
Teachers in Cameroon can find opportunities in different areas of the education sector. Some of the common roles include:
- Early childhood and primary school teaching: Teachers at this level help children build strong literacy and numeracy skills while also introducing them to both French and English.
- Secondary school subject teaching: There is steady demand for teachers in science, mathematics, social studies, and language arts across public and private institutions.
- Technical and vocational instruction: Cameroon has many training centers where young people learn trades such as mechanics, carpentry, agriculture, and ICT. Qualified teachers in these areas are highly sought after.
- Creative and specialist teaching: Schools often recruit teachers for music, fine arts, physical education, and increasingly, foreign languages beyond English and French.
- Private and part time teaching roles: Many teachers supplement their income by offering evening lessons, tutoring, or working with NGOs and community learning centers.
Schools and Institutions in Cameroon that Employ Teachers
Cameroon has a mix of international schools, private institutions, and teacher-training centers that regularly employ teachers. Below are some notable examples:
1. American School of Douala (ASD)
An international school that follows an American curriculum. It recruits teachers with strong English proficiency and international teaching experience. The school listed anticipated vacancies for the 2025-26 school year, including 1st Grade Teacher, 3rd Grade Teacher, and High School English Teacher.
2. American School of Yaoundé (ASOY)
Well known for offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It attracts teachers who can deliver global curricula and adapt to a diverse student population. Recently posted openings for EAL/ESL Teacher and Economics/Mathematics Teacher (2025 start).
3. Enko La Gaieté International School
Part of the Enko Education network, this school employs teachers trained in Cambridge or IB methods, and it serves bilingual learners.
4. Jean-Tabi College, Yaoundé
A respected Catholic private secondary school. It employs teachers in both general and technical subjects, with an emphasis on discipline and academic excellence.
5. Collège de la Retraite, Yaoundé
Another long standing Catholic school that recruits bilingual teachers for its French and English sections.
6. Lycée Classique de Dschang
A public secondary school known for producing strong academic results. It regularly recruits teachers through government postings.
7. Rainbow Bilingual College, Douala
A popular bilingual school offering instruction in both English and French. It hires teachers able to work flexibly across both languages.
8. École Normale Supérieure de Maroua
A government run teacher training institute. While primarily for training, it also recruits trainers and lecturers to prepare future teachers.
9. I-SENTTI, Bamenda
A specialized training institute for teachers in inclusive and special needs education. It provides opportunities for educators interested in this growing field.
Other Recommended Platforms and Organizations for Teaching Jobs in Cameroon
Apart from specific schools, there are several platforms and organizations that regularly post teaching vacancies in Cameroon. These are useful places for educators to keep checking for new opportunities:
- Finders Teachers: A platform often used by international schools to advertise roles in Cameroon. For example, recent postings included a Theory of Knowledge Teacher and a PYP Teacher at the American School of Yaoundé.
- ASQ International Jobs: Works with global and local schools to recruit teachers. They previously advertised a Lower Primary Teacher role at the British International School in Garoua, starting in August 2025.
- AIMS Teacher Training Program (TTP), Cameroon: Focuses on strengthening teaching in maths and science. Past listings included positions like Pedagogic Advisor (French).
- International Language and Education Center (ILEC), Yaoundé: Specializes in language education and occasionally recruits English as a Second Language (ESL) instructors, such as a Teaching Specialist role.
Check out: Healthcare and Nursing Jobs in Cameroon
Requirements to Teach in Cameroon
1. To work in most schools across Cameroon, teachers are expected to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably in education or a subject relevant to the position they are applying for.
2. Many institutions, especially government and international schools, also require formal teacher training or a teaching license, which demonstrates that the candidate is prepared to manage classrooms and deliver the curriculum effectively.
3. Since Cameroon is officially bilingual, teachers are generally expected to be fluent in either English or French. Those who can teach in both languages have a strong advantage, particularly in bilingual schools.
4. Work experience is valued, as public schools sometimes accept fresh graduates, but private and international schools often prefer candidates who already have a few years of classroom practice, ideally with exposure to international curricula or ESL teaching.
5. Teachers are increasingly expected to have basic ICT skills and familiarity with digital teaching tools, especially in private and international schools where technology is integrated into daily lessons.
6. Schools may also request proof of good moral character and references from previous employers or lecturers, reflecting the importance placed on discipline, professionalism, and values.
7. Health clearance is often required to ensure that teachers are physically and mentally fit for classroom responsibilities.
8. For government schools, candidates usually need to pass a recruitment examination or participate in a placement process organized by the Ministry of Secondary Education or Ministry of Basic Education.
Note / Tips for Aspiring Teachers: To stand out in Cameroon’s competitive teaching job market, highlight your bilingual ability, any international or specialized teaching experience, ICT proficiency, and strong references. Demonstrating adaptability, classroom management skills, and cultural awareness will also make you a more attractive candidate.
Teaching in a Bilingual System
Cameroon’s education system is shaped by its bilingual nature, with English and French serving as official languages. Depending on the region, schools may operate mainly in one language, while some combine both. International schools typically use English, while many private and public schools lean toward French or offer dual language instruction. For teachers, being able to communicate in both languages is a strong advantage, though it is not always a strict requirement.
Teaching Environment and Conditions
The day to day experience of teachers in Cameroon can differ widely depending on the type of school. In public institutions, teachers often face very large class sizes and fewer learning resources, which means creativity and adaptability are essential. Private schools may provide smaller class sizes but sometimes come with stricter expectations from school management and parents. International schools usually offer more competitive pay, better facilities, and professional development, though they often demand higher qualifications. In some areas, teachers also have to deal with irregular pay schedules or limited teaching materials, especially outside major cities.
Teacher Salaries in Cameroon
Teacher earnings in Cameroon vary depending on the type of school, employment status, and experience.
- Public School Teachers (Civil Servants): Government employed teachers generally earn between 150,000 and 250,000 CFA francs per month, depending on qualifications and years of service.
- Contract or Parent-Hired Teachers: Many teachers, especially in rural areas, are hired by parent teacher associations (PTAs). Their salaries are much lower, often 35,000–80,000 CFA francs per month.
- Private School Teachers: Salaries in private schools differ widely. Some smaller schools pay amounts close to PTA teachers, while better funded institutions can offer salaries similar to or slightly higher than government schools.
- International Schools: Teachers in international schools (such as the American School of Douala or Yaoundé) typically earn more competitive salaries, which can exceed 250,000 CFA francs per month, and may come with extra benefits like housing or medical allowances.
Note: While salaries for teachers in Cameroon may not be as high as in Western countries, many educators find that daily expenses such as food, transport, and utilities are relatively affordable. However, living costs in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé are higher than in smaller towns or rural areas, so the value of a teaching salary depends partly on location and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Cameroon stands out as a country where teaching is shaped by its bilingual identity, cultural diversity, and demand for skilled educators. From international schools in Douala and Yaoundé to local colleges and training institutes, the opportunities are wide but come with different expectations in terms of language skills, qualifications, and adaptability. While salaries may not always match international standards, the profession carries respect and offers teachers the chance to influence the next generation in a meaningful way. Anyone considering this path should focus on meeting the required credentials, learning about the working environment, and preparing for life in a system that blends French and English influences. When approached with the right mindset, teaching in Cameroon can be more than just a job, it can be a rewarding professional and cultural journey.
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