HOW TO PASS THE AJIRA PORTAL ORAL INTERVIEW FOR TEACHERS
To succeed in the Ajira Portal oral interview, a teacher must prepare well in the following key areas with focus and proper organization.
1. THE “TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF” QUESTION
This is a common question for all candidates, therefore it is essential to prepare for it in advance.
Briefly explain your historical, educational, and professional background.
Question Requirements:
The candidate should explain:
Personal history
Educational background
Work experience
Professional background
The question also aims to assess:
Communication skills
Confidence
Fluency in language
Verbal expression/communication
Assurance in what one is saying
Sample Answer:
“Thank you for the opportunity. My name is Neema Joseph, a Tanzanian born in 1994 in Mbeya Region. I come from a family that values discipline, education, and service.
I completed O-Level at Mbeya Day Secondary School in 2012, then A-Level at Ilomba High School in 2015, specializing in PCB. I later joined the University of Dar es Salaam and graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science with Education, majoring in Chemistry and Biology.
Professionally, I have worked for 4 years as a Secondary School Teacher at Katavi Secondary School, teaching Biology and Chemistry. I have also led science clubs and helped students prepare for NECTA examinations, resulting in improved performance.
I am confident, fluent in both English and Kiswahili, and possess strong communication and classroom management skills. I am passionate about teaching and committed to student success.”
2. CHOOSING A TOPIC AND PREPARING A PRESENTATION
This question was common for teachers last year and is still relevant this year. The way you present depends on the interview panel you meet. Some panels ask you to choose a class, others choose the topic, while others guide you and specify the class to prepare and present within a very short time. Therefore, do not worry—follow the panel’s instructions.
For good preparation, prepare a two-page presentation summary for each class: Form 1, Form 2, Form 3, Form 4, Form 5, and Form 6. You will later be instructed to prepare and present only one (guided), with the class clearly specified, within a few minutes. Avoid preparing too much content.
3. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FROM THE JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Carefully review the job description. Many interview questions are derived directly from the duties and responsibilities listed in the advertisement, so it is important to read and understand them based on the specific vacancy.
4. QUESTIONS AFTER THE PRESENTATION
After the presentation, you will be asked five questions.
The first question is Introduce Yourself, which is common to everyone. Answer briefly by mentioning key points: your name, educational background, qualifications, skills, and experience if available.
The remaining four questions are often subject content, sometimes a combination of subject content and education, and sometimes education only.
Each question requires you to mention five points. Some questions may not realistically have five points, but you will still be instructed to provide five. Such questions are deliberately asked to test your reaction when faced with a challenge. In this case, give the correct answers even if the points do not naturally reach five, confidently add relevant ideas, ensure you mention five points, and do not allow the question to defeat you. Think quickly, speak up, and do not waste time.
5. MINOR BUT IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Pray and ask God for guidance
Arrive early for the interview
Dress neatly and respectfully
Greet the panel even if you are older than them
Do not sit until you are instructed
Do not panic even if asked a question outside your topic
Answer with a clear voice and confidence
ABOVE ALL, CONFIDENCE AND PUTTING GOD FIRST ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT, FOR HE BELONGS TO US ALL.
Best wishes—I believe you will perform very well, and may God go before you.
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