Madeira teachers' union warns of severe educator shortage

The Madeira Teachers' Union (SPM) has warned of a severe shortage of educators in the region following the latest teacher placement process. SPM coordinator Francisco Oliveira stated that only 216 teachers were placed this year, a significant decrease from the more than 400 placed last year.

Despite the regional Secretary of Education previously estimating a need for 450 to 500 new teachers, the union reports that over 200 educators have left the regional system, including 57 who moved to mainland Portugal. The SPM argues that more than 550 new hires are actually required to address the deficit.

The union criticized the regional administration for creating job insecurity and precariousness, particularly for younger teachers and experienced staff who were not included in the initial placement lists. Oliveira described the current situation as the worst since 2014, warning that the lack of staff threatens the future of regional education.