Japan has a big problem. Public schools do not have enough teachers. In May 2025, about 4,000 positions were empty.

Many older teachers are retiring. At the same time, more young teachers need time off for their babies. School life today is difficult. Teachers have a lot of work, so fewer people want to do the job.

Now, the government plans to improve working conditions and find more licensed teachers.

Japan is facing a worsening teacher shortage. Almost 4,000 public school positions were vacant as of May 2025. This is around 1,700 higher than in 2021.

One reason is the retirement of teachers who started during the second baby boom. Meanwhile, more young teachers are taking parental leave. Positions have also increased due to the growth in special education programs. In addition, teachers today face various new challenges, decreasing applicants.

The government plans to improve working conditions while trying to recruit licensed teachers who are not currently teaching.

Japan’s education ministry has reported a growing teacher shortage. A nationwide survey of public schools found over 3,800 positions unfilled as of May 2025. Compared with 2021, this marks an increase of approximately 1,700, with improvements in 23 municipalities but worsening conditions in 43.

One key factor is the mass retirement of teachers hired during the second baby boom. Meanwhile, more young teachers are taking parental leave. Demand has also risen due to the increase in special needs classes and efforts to improve educational environments. Schools today face complex challenges, including bullying, poverty, and absenteeism. Teaching is widely seen as being demanding, reducing applicants.

The ministry plans to raise pay, review workload sharing, and implement work-style reforms. It also aims to recruit licensed teachers who are not currently teaching.