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UNESCO Report Warns of Global Teacher Shortage and Rising Attrition

A new report highlights a critical need for 44 million educators by 2030 as teacher attrition rates double and vacancies persist globally, particularly in STEM fields and secondary education.

Overview

  • Global primary teacher attrition rates doubled from 4.6% in 2015 to 9% in 2022, with secondary education also seeing significant shortages.
  • UNESCO estimates a worldwide shortfall of 44 million teachers—13 million in primary and 31 million in secondary education—to meet universal education goals by 2030.
  • Spain faces acute challenges, with over 20% of teachers on temporary contracts, 720 unfilled mathematics teaching posts, and high levels of burnout reported among educators.
  • STEM subjects, including mathematics and sciences, are particularly affected by teacher shortages, with non-specialists increasingly filling critical roles, raising concerns about education quality.
  • The report calls for systemic reforms, including better salaries, improved working conditions, targeted professional development, and initiatives to support teacher well-being and retention.