Nearly 69 million new teachers needed to reach 2030 goals

Close to 69 million new teachers will be needed in order to reach the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

That's the stark conclusion reached by the statistical institute of the UN's Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO, marking World Teachers Day on 5 October.

In the next 14 years, more than 24 million primary school teachers and 44 million secondary teachers will be needed to reach Goal 4, which demands "inclusive and equitable" education for all.

"Entire education systems are gearing up for the big push" towards the goal, according to UNESCO's Silvia Montoya "but education systems are only as good as their teachers," she said.

Sub-Saharan Africa faces the biggest teacher-shortage, with a shortfall of 17 million.

A joint message from four major UN agencies on World Teachers Day stressed the "limitless contributions made by teachers around the world" and highlighted the need for urgent action.


SOURCE: UN Radio