CHALLENGES AND THE NEED FOR CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF LECTURERS AT THE GABELA UNIVERSITY CAMPUS OF ISU WAKU-KUNGO

Abstract

This study aimed to analyse the challenges faced by the lecturers of the Gabela University Campus of ISU Waku-Kungo and the need for continuous professional development. The research was based on the assumption that, despite lecturers' motivation, organizational and structural factors may limit the quality of their teaching practice. The main objective was to identify the key pedagogical, technological, and institutional challenges, as well as to assess lecturers' perceptions regarding the importance of continuous training. An exploratory-descriptive methodology with both quantitative and qualitative approaches was adopted. Data were collected through structured questionnaires applied to a purposive sample of 20 lecturers. Informal interviews were also conducted to complement responses and clarify relevant information. The results indicate that lecturers face challenges in four main areas: the need to update teaching methodologies, difficulties in integrating digital technologies, work overload, and lack of specific pedagogical training. Although most recognize the importance of continuous professional development, only a portion of the lecturers had recently participated in training programs, revealing institutional and organizational gaps. It is concluded that continuous professional development is essential for improving teaching practices, methodological innovation, and professional growth. The study recommends implementing structured training programs, supporting technology integration, and developing strategies to manage workload, aiming to strengthen teaching quality and lecturers' professional identity.