The Malta Union of Teachers has voiced concern over a shortage of teachers in certain categories.

In a message to mark World Teachers' Day, MUT President John Bencini said that globalization has forced governments to recognize the importance of quality education; it is on the lips of every political leader; it is reaffirmed in every summit communique.

Maltese teachers, he said, are amongst the best.

"However, the MUT is still concerned that in certain areas and in certain subjects there is still a shortage of fully qualified teachers. The Primary Sector is a case in point. Only 12 Primary School teachers graduated from University this year. This has constrained the authorities to employ ‘Supply teachers’."

He said that many more teachers in this sector may graduate next year.

But all teaching grades in Malta would be facing new challenges as the new reform on the transition from Primary to Secondary is now underway.

"This necessitates the importance of differentiated learning which will only be a success if it is complemented with a significant reduction in the maximum number of students in each class. The MUT augurs that the authorities should plan in advance to ascertain that an adequate teacher-student ratio is in place."

Mr Bencini said an urgent review of syllabi in the Primary and Secondary levels was also needed.

World Teachers' Day will be marked tomorrow.