Teacher shortages as a multidimensional challenge

To effectively reach the aims of SDG 4, education systems need to take action to supply and allocate teachers equitably across their schools and classrooms. Nevertheless, as seen in Chapter II, teacher numbers are insufficient in many systems, with teachers inequitably distributed within and between countries. Moreover, teacher shortages represent a complex and layered policy issue, taking many shapes and stemming from numerous causes. Examining teacher shortages and their causes from multiple perspectives, this chapter explores issues such as recruitment shortfalls, difficulties in coping with rising school attendance levels, growing teacher attrition rates and inadequate teacher allocation. It then explores the many dimensions which underlie acute teacher shortages and demonstrates how they are interconnected. This chapter contends that addressing teacher shortages involves recognizing them as a multidimensional issue in order to identify effective solutions.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Quality Education

Decent Work and Economic Growth