The Verkhovna Rada Committee on Education, Science and Innovations has called on the government to increase teachers’ salaries to three times the minimum wage, emphasizing the need for urgent action. The committee, led by head Serhiy Babak, also proposed simultaneous modifications to the salary structure. Babak explained that the current salary levels for educators are insufficient to attract and retain qualified professionals, particularly in rural areas where the shortage of teachers is acute.
The proposal comes amid growing concerns about the quality of education in Ukraine, with many experts warning that underpaid teachers are leading to a brain drain and poor educational outcomes. The committee argued that raising salaries to three minimum wages would not only improve teacher morale but also enhance the overall quality of education across the country. Babak also suggested that the structural changes to the salary system would help ensure fair distribution of funds and accountability in the education sector.
Serhiy Babak, the head of the committee, stated that the appeal to the Budget Committee and Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko is part of a broader initiative to address systemic issues in education. He emphasized that the government must take immediate action to prevent further deterioration in the education system. The committee is also seeking support from other political factions to push for the proposal’s passage in the Verkhovna Rada.