In response to the new regulations for issuing teaching certificates and related procedures, the Minister of Education, P.Naranbayar, provided an update. He stated that there is a shortage of approximately 4,200 teachers nationwide, with the most significant gaps in natural sciences and English language teachers. For instance, there is a 11 percent shortage of English teachers, 10 percent for physics and chemistry, and nine percent for technology teachers. In addition, the ministry is calling for individuals who have graduated from local or international universities with a minimum GPA of 2.7 in mathematics to apply for teaching positions. Completing a 45-day training course will grant them a teaching certificate. However, specific requirements will apply for those wishing to become full-time teachers.
In meetings with school administrators, concerns were raised about the urgent need to address teacher shortages, with some suggesting that instead of a selective hiring process, all applicants should be considered for employment. Therefore, it is advisable to open this market to qualified individuals from both domestic and international universities. This approach is not uncommon globally and is expected to reduce teachers’ workload. By alleviating this burden, the quality of education can be improved. A new regulation stipulates the use of teacher assistants in classrooms with more than 44 students, and this policy is currently being implemented.
Looking ahead, it is anticipated that the number of students in middle and high school will increase until 2028. However, from 2030, the student population is expected to stabilize and eventually decrease. Currently, there are 226,000 people employed in the civil service nationwide, with 126,000 working in the education sector. The Ministry of Education is continuously advocating for higher salaries for teachers and staff with the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection.
Moreover, a UNESCO report released last February forecasts a global demand for 44 million teachers by 2030. Furthermore, there are also significant shortages of professionals in agriculture, law enforcement, healthcare, particularly laboratory technicians, and nurses.
