The Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU) has commenced negotiations with the Government of Sierra Leone through the newly established Teaching Service Trade Group Negotiating Council (TSGNC).
A release from the Union, dated 6th February, 2019, has updated teachers on the status of the negotiations, noting that the TSGNC, which is the legally mandated body to negotiate terms and conditions of service, has been reconstituted with new members appointed, including the Sierra Leone Teachers Union as provided by law.
The Council, the release states, has held its inaugural meeting attended by both the Ministers of Education and Labour and a new Chairman and Secretary have both been appointed to steer the negotiations.
The Union notes that it has submitted realistic terms and conditions clearly outlining the requirements for a basic living standard for the teacher.
“…Furthermore, the Union has included a proposed Pay Package outlining the breadbasket and living wage with realistic increases on salaries and allowances for the teacher,” the release adds.
SLTU reiterated the assurances and strong commitment of Government towards improving the salaries and conditions of service for teachers in the pursuance of the Free and Quality Education programme.
The SLTU plans to embark on consultative meetings, starting with heads of schools across the country, shortly on the ongoing negotiations.
The release concludes by requesting all teachers to continue rendering their invaluable services whilst looking forward to a successful outcome of the negotiations.
Very close sources within SLTU quarters have hinted the nighwatch that the new package presented to government has requested for a fair and reasonable package, taking into consideration current economic trends. It is reported that the SLTU, in consultation with their membership, has asked for increment ranging between 8 to 44 %.
It is not known how long the negotiations will last, considering the high expectations amongst teachers for improved conditions of service.