The Sierra Leone Teachers Union has, in a Press release dated 6th February, updated its general membership on the current negotiations between the Union and Government over the new improved conditions of service.
The release noted that the negotiations with Government are ongoing but with very little progress.
“In solidarity with the Union, teachers across the country have been patiently waiting since last year for some positive action by Government to improve their lives, but to no avail,” the release states.
The release further emphasized the fact that the success of the President flagship project largely depends on the commitment of teachers who are the most important faction in the equation.
“Against this backdrop, we urge government to speedily move the negotiation process with a view to reaching an agreement by 8th March, 2019,” the release warned.
The release further calls on its membership across the country to continue rendering their invaluable services while looking up to the Union, which remains the only body mandated by law to negotiate on behalf of teachers.
The Government, which has reportedly spent over 300 billion in the procurement of various school materials and other school demands, including admission fees, is said to be very indifferent to the plight of teachers across the country, even though they are very cardinal to the success of the Free and Quality Education scheme.
The Timbo administration has failed to simply constitute a representation to the Teaching Service Trade Group Negotiating Council (TSTGNC), which comprises the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (representing the employees) and the Government (as the employer).
The constitution of such a group would have kicked off the negotiations for improved conditions of service. A very close source within the corridors of the Ministry of Education has intimated this media that Government is presently cash trapped to make any new commitments for teachers or the Educational sector outside the 21% of the 2019 budget that will sustain any new package for teachers.
This news has been received with frustration by teachers who spoke to this medium in Freetown. They have blamed their colleague, the current Minister of Basic Education, for failing to represent their interest as teachers, a constituency he also belongs and quite aware of the constraints facing the sector.
