Between 2021 and 2025, 9,466 teachers graduated in Portugal, a figure that represents an increase compared to recent years, but remains significantly below the needs of the education system. This data comes after a period of sharp decline in teacher training.
In comparison, between 2006 and 2010, 20,237 teachers had been trained, almost double the number recorded in the most recent period. This difference highlights the extent of the reduction in the training of new teachers over the past few decades.
The decline in training was more pronounced in lower secondary education and upper secondary education, that is, in the areas covering older students. This situation raises concerns about the ability to fill future vacancies at these educational levels.
Despite the situation, the article notes that more teachers are currently being trained than in more recent previous periods, which represents a reversal of the declining trend, although the numbers are still not enough to meet all the needs of Portuguese schools.
