Burnout in the Education Sector in Angola: Perceptions and Impact on the Quality of Education

Abstract

The present study analyzed the risk factors associated with burnout among teachers, highlighting its impact on mental health and professional performance. To this end, a qualitative approach was adopted, involving semi-structured interviews with 215 primary and secondary school teachers (I and II Cycles) in urban and rural contexts in the provinces of Zaire, Luanda, and Cuanza Sul. Content analysis revealed that workload overload, poor infrastructure conditions, low salaries, and lack of institutional support are key factors contributing to teachers' emotional exhaustion. The findings showed that burnout significantly compromises the quality of education, leading to increased demotivation and absenteeism. Based on these results, a set of preventive measures was proposed, including improving working conditions, implementing teacher appreciation policies, and strengthening psychosocial support.