António Nóvoa demands a teaching revolution to save Portugal's schools
Educator António Nóvoa has called for a radical overhaul of Portugal’s education system, rooted in the traditional values of teaching. His remarks came during the Educar Transforma Congress, where he criticised modern trends that threaten to undermine schools and teachers’ roles. Thousands of teachers have also taken to the streets in protest against recent government reforms. Speaking at the congress, Nóvoa rejected claims that schools are becoming obsolete. He dismissed ideas suggesting teachers could be replaced by 'learning coaches' or 'workshop leaders', calling such narratives misleading. Instead, he argued that schools must remain strong institutions with responsibilities beyond mere service or business models.
Nóvoa also warned against an overreliance on artificial intelligence in classrooms. He claimed its exaggerated promotion risks degrading education and reducing teachers’ influence. His vision for change centres on cooperation, shared purpose, and a sense of community within schools. The educator noted a worrying gap in current teaching practices. While schools often have projects, he observed a lack of clear 'pedagogical vision' in many classrooms. Nóvoa also expressed concern over shifting perceptions of parents’ and citizens’ roles, describing them as increasingly misunderstood. His comments follow widespread teacher protests in Lisbon. Educators demonstrated against proposed changes to the Teaching Career Statute and broader labour reforms. Nóvoa urged teachers to push for greater public recognition, criticising governments for neglecting their profession since the early 2000s. The Educar Transforma Congress began in Matosinhos and will continue in Lisbon’s Centro Cultural de Belém on June 20.
Nóvoa’s call for a 'metamorphosis' in education highlights deep concerns about the future of teaching in Portugal. His emphasis on collaboration and classroom focus contrasts with current debates over technology and structural reforms. The upcoming congress session in Lisbon will likely keep these discussions in the spotlight.
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