Ei-iE

In a landmark victory for educators, Cape Verdean teacher unions have achieved a significant salary increase, marking recognition and valorization for the teaching profession.

The Plan for careers, functions and remunerations (PCFR) adopted by the National Assembly establishes a new salary structure aiming to bring stability and dignity to the teaching profession. Effective from August 18, 2025, it includes retroactive payments from January of the same year.

Result of a relentless struggle

This outcome was made possible thanks to the persistence, determination, and sustained dialogue between the representative unions and the Ministry of Education of Cape Verde.

Abraão Borges, secretary general of the Federaçao Caboverdiana dos Professores (FECAP) – an Education International (EI) member organization –, president of the Sindicato dos Professores da Ilha de Santiago (SIPROFIS) and member of the EI Africa Regional Committee, welcomes this achievement: “It is a historic milestone in Cape Verde, because teachers have gone a long time without a salary and their careers were at a standstill.”

The new salary structure

The new salary structure offers substantial increases across different categories of teachers:

• Teachers without formal training will see their salaries rise from 23,000 CVE (around 210 euros) to 55,000 CVE (around 500 euros).
• Licensed teachers will have their salaries increased from 78,000 CVE (around 710 euros) to 91,000 CVE (around 825 euros).
• Teachers with a master's degree will benefit from salaries starting at 106,000 CVE (around 960 euros) and increasing up to 121,000 CVE (around 1100 euros), depending on their specific cases.

Ensuring the PCFR implementation and a smooth start of the school year

The transition list for the new PCFR has been published in the official gazette. SIPROFIS has committed to closely monitoring the implementation of the process to ensure equity and transparency. Borges states, adding: “We will continue our dialogue, because we have always worked with the Ministry of Education in an open dialogue that existed throughout this time.”

As the new academic year approaches, the union is focused on ensuring a smooth and stable start. Borges highlights the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation: “We want to start the school year with a harmonious relationship between the Ministry of Education, teachers, schools, parents, and guardians." The union has also assured teachers that they are ready to address any complaints collectively if they are relevant.

Watch SIPROFIS reaction to the publication of the PCFR transition list here: