The Teaching Profession: What Repels Young Professionals and How to Change the Situation?

06.03.2026 | Education

Analysis of the problems in the teaching profession in Bulgaria: lack of support, bureaucracy, burnout. Proposals for improving conditions and attracting young teachers. Discussion of current problems such as student absences.

Снимка от Deborah Verwey, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The teaching profession is crucial for society, but in Bulgaria it faces a number of challenges. Young teachers often leave due to lack of support from institutions, difficult partnerships with parents, and professional burnout. The "Education" trade union affiliated with the "Podkrepa" Labour Confederation emphasizes the bureaucratic attitude of the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) towards teachers' suggestions, as well as the unfair treatment regarding complaints from parents.

According to the union, a complaint from a parent automatically triggers a reaction from the MES, which often leads to a preliminary accusation of the teacher. It is necessary for schools and kindergartens to become places of respect, support, and professional development in order to improve the quality of education. The question of the lack of teachers in general is raised, and the specific example of the private school "Kosmos" and the absences of students is noted.

The main problems include: lack of support from institutions, difficult partnerships, bureaucracy, and burnout. Changes in policies and attitudes towards teachers are needed to ensure their professional development and to attract interest in the profession.