GEW warns of persistent teacher shortages in Germany

The Education and Science Workers' Union (GEW) has released a study projecting teacher demand in Germany through 2040. While student numbers are expected to rise to 11.4 million before declining to 10.2 million by 2040, the study suggests that the current massive teacher shortage may only partially ease. Experts note that while primary schools might see relief, significant shortages are expected to persist in vocational schools, special education, and secondary schools (excluding gymnasiums).

In North Rhine-Westphalia, GEW state chair Ayla Celik is demanding transparency regarding the state government's promise to hire 10,000 additional teachers. While Minister Dorothee Feller reports that approximately 12,600 more people are working in the school system compared to the start of the legislative period, the union seeks clarification on how many of these are fully trained teachers. Currently, around 8,700 positions remain vacant in the state. The union warns that teachers are currently being forced to take on roles as social workers and psychologists due to staffing gaps.