Zimbabwe lost over 5,000 teachers during 2023 because of poor pay and bad working conditions. Education officials confirmed 2,109 teachers resigned and 2,866 retired from their jobs. Teacher unions claim the real number reaches 15,000 departures. The Progressive Teachers Union calls the situation a complete exodus from classrooms. Government data shows teachers left for family moves, health problems and career changes.
Teachers earn about $250 monthly compared to $540 before 2018 economic troubles. Ministry officials built 2,800 new classrooms and gave teachers a 10 percent raise. Rural schools suffer most from the teacher shortage crisis. Union leaders say educators move to South Africa, Botswana and Middle East countries for better opportunities. The government promises more talks about teacher welfare through official channels.
Teacher union representatives visited President Mnangagwa asking for urgent help. They also sent requests to Finance Minister Ncube demanding living wages for educators. Ministry spokesman says family relocation caused 42 percent of departures rather than money problems. Union president disputes government statistics about why teachers leave their positions. Education leaders warn more teachers will abandon Zimbabwe without major improvements.
Teachers earn about $250 monthly compared to $540 before 2018 economic troubles. Ministry officials built 2,800 new classrooms and gave teachers a 10 percent raise. Rural schools suffer most from the teacher shortage crisis. Union leaders say educators move to South Africa, Botswana and Middle East countries for better opportunities. The government promises more talks about teacher welfare through official channels.
Teacher union representatives visited President Mnangagwa asking for urgent help. They also sent requests to Finance Minister Ncube demanding living wages for educators. Ministry spokesman says family relocation caused 42 percent of departures rather than money problems. Union president disputes government statistics about why teachers leave their positions. Education leaders warn more teachers will abandon Zimbabwe without major improvements.
