Ei-iE

"The International Day of Education 2025 should be remembered as a milestone of achievements for the teaching profession, reflecting the dignity and recognition of its importance." This was the message of hope and determination to the nation's educators and society at large delivered by Abraão Borges, the president of SIPROFIS, the largest teachers' union within the Federaçao Caboverdiana dos Professores (Cape Verdean Federation of Teachers-FECAP) affiliated to Education International.

The International Day of Education was marked in the country by a vote to adopt the Teachers' Status by Cape Verdean deputies from all political parties, which the union supported. The next step is to ensure that it is fully implemented. Borges also underscored the urgency of fully respecting teachers' rights, with a particular focus on salary improvements, hoping this demand will be met by the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Elected as the main representative of Zone 2 of Education International Africa (EIA) region during the 10th conference in South Africa, Borges also serves on the board of the Education Trade Union Confederation of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP-SE). This network, which includes Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, and São Tomé and Príncipe, enhances the international representation of Cape Verdean teachers and amplifies their voice in global education debates.

A day of reflection and commitment

The International Day of Education, celebrated annually on January 24, was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 to highlight the essential role of education in promoting peace, sustainable development, and human dignity.

In Cape Verde, SIPROFIS made sure that this celebration served as an opportunity to reflect on the progress and challenges faced by the education system, reaffirming the commitment to the right of everyone to quality education. It is also a moment to recognize the transformative role of teachers, whose dedication is vital in preparing citizens for future challenges.

A call to action

The education union also reaffirmed its commitment to defending teachers' rights and promoting inclusive and quality education, contributing to the strengthening and development of Cape Verdean society. The union hopes that the consensus reached in the National Assembly will mark a historic milestone for education in Cape Verde, particularly benefiting teachers.

The union further calls on the Government to fulfill its commitments, including:

• Promotions and salary raises;
• Payment of the subsidy for non-reduction of working hours;
• Guarantee of access to level changes in a concrete and swift manner.

SIPROFIS also urges the Cape Verdean President to enact the Teachers' Status, ending teachers’ long-standing concerns and celebrating education as a national priority.

The Global Status of Teachers Report

Education International voices its full support to Cape Verdean colleagues, who must be respected, valued and motivated. In line with its “Go Public! Fund Education” campaign, it demands that the government of Cape Verde invests in public education, a fundamental human right and public good, and invests more in teachers, the single most important factor in achieving quality education.

On International Day of Education, Education International launched the Global Status of Teachers Report. Authored by Dr. Ben Arnold and Dr. Mark Rahimi, this groundbreaking publication provides an analysis of the state of the teaching profession worldwide, highlighting the key role teachers play in ensuring equitable and quality education for all.