With over 27,000 teaching vacancies in South Africa, unions warn of increasing pressure on schools, highlighting the urgent need for effective recruitment and support for educators.
South Africa has 27 092 vacant teaching posts across its public education system, with teacher unions warning that unfilled positions are placing additional pressure on schools, teachers, and pupils.
The figures, recorded as of June 30, 2026, were provided by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube in a written parliamentary reply.
The Eastern Cape had the highest number of vacancies at 5 730, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 4 700 and Gauteng with 3 994.
The Western Cape had 3 562 vacancies, Limpopo 3 097, North West 2 346, Mpumalanga 1 866, Northern Cape 1 521, and the Free State 276. Of the vacant posts, 2 654 were recorded as having a “frozen” status as of June 30, 2026.
