Nampula province faces shortage of 3,000 teachers

The Nampula province in Mozambique is facing a critical shortage of over 3,000 teachers to serve approximately two million students. Despite the hiring of 351 new educators in 2026, the deficit remains a significant challenge for the sector, which manages 2,505 schools.

Health issues are exacerbating the crisis. Local authorities report that 1,169 education employees are living with chronic illnesses, including 1,059 teachers. Additionally, 305 staff members are bedridden, including 296 teachers. The National Organization of Teachers (ONP) noted that roughly 1,200 teachers face health struggles such as malaria, hypertension, and HIV. The organization also highlighted concerns regarding medical assistance, stating that salary deductions for healthcare do not consistently result in regular service provision.

Human resource management is further pressured by mortality rates within the profession; approximately 147 teachers have died since January, including two cases of suicide.