MOE plans to hire more than 1,000 new teachers annually: Desmond Lee

The Ministry of Education (MOE) will be hiring more than 1,000 new educators annually over the next few years, Education Minister Desmond Lee said in his speech at the Teachers' Investiture Ceremony at the National Institute of Education on Jul. 9, 2025.

In his speech, He highlighted the importance of Singapore's education system in the country's nation-building story.

He also said the ministry has built a committed and high-quality teaching force over the years, and it wants to grow the teaching fraternity further to nurture children in Singapore, realising their potential, regardless of starting point in life.

The ministry added in a statement in response to media queries that the hiring strategy supports long-term workforce sustainability and talent acquisition, in anticipation of more retirements in the coming years as the teaching workforce ages, in line with national trends.

MOE previously said it recruits up to 700 teachers annually.

Educators to stay updated on global developments

At the investiture ceremony, Lee also highlighted the need for educators to stay updated on global developments to prepare students for a fast-changing world.

Some of the developments include rapid advances in automation and artificial intelligence, climate change, as well as the use of social media and digital platforms.

Teachers play a role in shaping and guiding young Singaporeans' early practices and habits, Lee said.

"Our education system must do more than keep pace with these rapid and fundamental changes. We must future-proof our next generation, and prepare our students to ride these waves of change and shape the future. As educators, you are central to this important mission," Lee added.

Lee also assured that the ministry will support teachers' continuous learning and career growth, and that they are not alone in this journey.

Top photo from MOE/Facebook