UNESCO Estimates a Need for 50 Million Additional Teachers by 2030

The world needs 50 million additional teachers by 2030 to achieve universal access to pre-primary, primary and secondary education, UNESCO said in data released for World Teachers’ Day on 5 October 2026.

The estimate includes replacements for teachers leaving the profession as well as new posts. UNESCO said 58% of the required recruitment would replace departures, underlining the importance of retention alongside training.

The world currently has approximately 107 million teachers. In two out of five of the 68 countries examined, teacher salaries were below those of similarly qualified professionals across all education levels.

The findings are global comparisons rather than a standalone estimate for Türkiye. UNESCO’s recommendations include stronger career paths, teacher participation in policymaking, safer and more supportive schools, and reductions in unnecessary workload. Recruitment targets alone do not describe whether teachers have the time and conditions needed to support pupils.

Read the original Turkish report · Official source · Additional official source · Additional official source.

Photo: Ivan Aleksic / Unsplash. Illustrative classroom photograph.