Speaking to more than 200 students at Dr. Joaquim de Carvalho Secondary School in Figueira da Foz, the same school he attended in the 1980s, Alexandre reflected on the social perception of teachers. “I cannot understand how teachers have been so undervalued socially. For many years, they joined demonstrations, with good reason. But teachers should be respected for their knowledge, their authority, and for shaping generations of students. When they constantly protest, that aura is lost,” he argued.

The minister clarified he was not criticising teachers’ past protests, acknowledging they were often treated unfairly, both professionally and socially. He stressed that valuing teachers must begin with restoring their social standing, describing educators as individuals who leave a lasting mark on lives.

Addressing how the Government intends to make teaching more attractive, Alexandre highlighted forthcoming negotiations with unions, which had stalled under the previous administration. Key proposals include abolishing quotas in the 5th and 7th career steps – measures that currently hinder career progression – and raising salaries at entry levels, which remain low compared with private sector opportunities.

He also underlined efforts to address teacher shortages, revealing that over 2,000 teachers previously working in municipalities and other institutions are being reassigned to schools. “The priority is teaching. If someone is essential elsewhere, mobility will be allowed. But if they are needed in schools, that is where they will be,” he said.

Alexandre emphasised that Portugal’s progress depends on a stable education system. “We cannot achieve our goals as a country without motivated teachers, and, indeed, motivated non-teaching staff too.”