Foreign agencies and international organizations have declared 2026 as the “Year of the Teacher”. The decision was made against the backdrop of a globally observed teacher shortage posing a serious risk to education systems. It is stated that urgent measures are necessary in this area.
AzEdu.az reports, citing foreign media, that a report published by UNESCO notes that approximately 44 million new teachers will be needed worldwide by 2030. According to the report, if the current situation persists, the quality of education may decline in many countries, the teacher-student ratio may increase, and access to education may be limited.
International bodies cite low salaries, heavy workloads, limited professional development opportunities, and teachers leaving the profession among the main reasons for the teacher shortage. It is emphasized that this problem is felt more acutely, especially in developing countries.
Within the framework of the “Year of the Teacher”, calls have been made to governments to strengthen teacher training programs, improve teachers' social welfare, and enhance the prestige of the profession. International organizations believe that steps taken in this direction will be crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the global education system.
