A deepening economic crisis in Yemen is pushing teachers to the brink, with many taking on multiple jobs just to survive.
Life beyond the classroom
Mohammed Salem, a government school teacher with over three decades of experience, now works three jobs daily—teaching at a public school, then a private institution, and later working in a hotel.
“If I had time for a fourth job, I would take it,” he says, reflecting the harsh reality faced by educators across the country.
Salaries collapse amid crisis
Despite long working hours, Salem now earns less than half of what he did a decade ago. His monthly income has dropped from around $320 to nearly $130 due to the sharp devaluation of the Yemeni currency.
The prolonged conflict involving groups like the Houthis has devastated the economy, disrupting salaries, oil revenues, and public services.
Families forced into survival mode
The financial strain has forced families to make painful choices—skipping meals, cutting out meat and dairy, and relocating to cheaper housing.
Salem revealed that during difficult days, his family survives on basic food like rice and potatoes. In extreme cases, even healthcare is delayed due to rising costs.
Education system under severe stress
According to humanitarian agencies, millions of children in Yemen are out of school, and thousands of schools have been damaged or destroyed.
Nearly two-thirds of teachers reportedly receive no regular salary, severely impacting the quality of education.
Teachers losing hope
Many educators say their focus has shifted from teaching to survival. Some are considering leaving the profession altogether due to worsening conditions.
Female and part-time teachers face even greater challenges, with lower pay and fewer opportunities for additional income.
Protests and temporary relief
Teachers across regions have staged protests demanding fair wages. Some local authorities have introduced small incentives, while farmers in certain areas have stepped in to provide food support.
However, these measures remain insufficient to address the broader crisis.
A generation at risk
Experts warn that the collapse of the education system could have long-term consequences for an entire generation.
As teachers struggle to survive, the future of millions of children hangs in the balance, highlighting the urgent need for stability and support
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