Fatoumatta: Chinua Achebe once wrote, “Since the hunter has learned to shoot without missing, the kites have learned to fly without perching.” This is particularly relevant to the teachers’ quest for justice in receiving their overdue salaries from the government. The government, having been precise in its dealings with the Teachers Union, must now be equally prompt in addressing their legitimate demands for payment. With the Teachers Union having declared a strike, which is both protected by law and constitutional, it is imperative that the government acts swiftly to resolve the issues with the Union before the strike commences.
Media reports indicate that the Gambia Teachers’ Union (GTU) has declared a sit-down strike for all teachers in Grant-Aided Schools starting Monday, December 2, 2024. The action is a response to the government’s failure to pay November salaries for SSS Board Schools and the School Improvement Grant (SIG) for Mission Schools. It is disheartening that teachers, who are pivotal in shaping our nation’s future, are subjected to such financial struggles.
Media reports indicate that the GTU has persistently attempted to address the issue via dialogue and negotiation, but the government has failed to keep its commitments. This situation has resulted in significant distress and financial hardship for both the Union members and the affected schools. Ismaila S. Ceesay, the Union’s President, has condemned the government’s inaction, labeling the strike as a crucial and necessary response to the Ministry of Finance’s apparent disregard for the welfare of teachers and support staff at the schools in question.
The right to fair compensation is essential, and ensuring timely payment of salaries and SIG distributions is a governmental responsibility. Failure to meet these obligations undermines the quality of education and diminishes trust between educators and the government. The GTU recognizes its members’ frustrations and is dedicated to holding the government accountable for its commitments.
As a community, we must support our teachers and advocate for their equitable treatment. The GTU’s decision to strike underscores the necessity for accountability and the government’s duty to put educators’ welfare first. It is important to back our teachers in their pursuit of justice and ensure their voices are heard.
Fatoumatta:The Gambian government’s budget, as declared by the Finance Minister, includes a 30 percent salary hike for low-income civil and public sector workers. However, this promise is under scrutiny as teachers’ November salaries remain unpaid, leading to a sit-down strike that adversely affects students. Moreover, the government has increased travel allowances. While this is a positive step, it is essential to prioritize the welfare, salaries, and working conditions of teachers. President Barrow must urgently address the teachers’ grievances to ensure their salaries and grants are paid on time, thus averting further disruption in the education system. A commitment to valuing and adequately compensating teachers is key to nurturing a thriving educational sector for the country’s progress.
