Teachers' union considers legal action against Education Minister

Friday, 25 September 2026AI summary
Teachers' union considers legal action against Education Minister
Photo: RTP Notícias

The National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional de Professores or Fenprof) is considering legal action against Minister of Education Fernando Alexandre. The minister accused the union of attempting to sabotage the digital grading process for national exams, while the union labeled his comments insulting.

Context & Explainers

Fenprof is the National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional dos Professores), the main public‑school teachers' union in Portugal that represents teachers in pay, working conditions and education reforms. Its criticism matters because Fenprof can organize strikes and mobilise teachers, which directly affects school operations and the implementation of government changes — something families and expat educators should monitor.

Fernando Alexandre is the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation in Portugal's current government, which took office in April 2024. An economist by training, he previously served as a Secretary of State and is now responsible for managing the national school system and university funding. He recently sparked debate by suggesting that university tuition fees should be adjusted to account for inflation.