Resources

<Key Messages>

1. Globally, 44 million additional primary and secondary teachers are needed to meet Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 — the attainment of quality education for all by 2030. Teacher shortages affect both developed and developing countries. Most of these teachers (7 out of 10) are required at the secondary level, and over half of those needed are required to replace existing teachers leaving the workforce.

2. The challenge of teacher shortages is complex, influenced by an interplay of factors such as motivation, recruitment, retention, training, working conditions, and social status. Holistic and systemic approaches are needed to address the challenge effectively.

3. Teacher shortages have far-reaching consequences, including increased teacher workloads and diminished well-being, discouragement of future educators, perpetuation of educational inequalities, and increased financial burdens on educational systems.

4. Teacher attrition is also a global concern: between 2015 and 2022, attrition rates of primary education teachers doubled around the world from 4.6 to 9 per cent. Regardless of the country income level, and even remuneration, teachers are leaving the profession within the first five years of practice.

5. Strategies to reverse teacher shortages need to address recruitment, attractiveness, and retention. Attractive career pathways with equitable access to professional development are vital to retain teachers and keep them motivated throughout their professional life.

6. Inclusive policies are needed to promote gender equality in the teaching profession, address underrepresentation of women in certain subjects, levels and leadership roles and encourage men to enter and remain in teaching. Teaching workforces should reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, thus enhancing attractiveness and enriching learning experiences.

7. Improving teacher working conditions is key to enhancing the supply of quality teachers, this includes involving them in decision-making and providing a collaborative school culture characterized by mutual support. 8. Adequate domestic expenditure on education plays a crucial role in financing education, particularly ensuring that teacher salaries are competitive. Investing in novice teachers can be a cost-effective longterm strategy to address teacher attrition.