Guinea-Bissau teachers demand salary regularization
The national teachers' union warns of class disruptions if overdue payments and reclassifications are not addressed.
The National Union of Teachers (SINAPROF) in Guinea-Bissau urged the government on October 21, 2026, to ensure regular salary payments for educators. SINAPROF president Domingos Carvalho stated that while the regularization of 5,000 contracted teachers is positive, 1,112 teachers still await reclassification after their process was validated by the Ministry of Education.
Carvalho also raised concerns about teachers over 45 years old who were hired as contractors before reaching that age, demanding clarification from authorities. He criticized the financial burdens placed on teachers for documentation and noted that many faced salary delays last year, impacting school operations. Currently, 95% of public schools are open, but only 56% function normally, partly due to teachers traveling to Bissau for administrative processes.
The union also highlighted poor school infrastructure, with 80% of public schools lacking adequate buildings and some operating from makeshift tents. SINAPROF is negotiating with the government to integrate these professionals into the education system and resolve ongoing issues.
Why it mattersTeachers and students in Guinea-Bissau are affected by potential disruptions to the school year due to unresolved salary and administrative issues.