THE recent announcement by the General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) and Member of Parliament, Ms. Coretta McDonald, calling for strike action starting on February 5, 2024, has been strongly rejected on the basis of facts.

The Ministry of Education’s (MoE) swift and robust response, labelling the proposed strike as “incomprehensible,” sheds light on the complexities underlying the ongoing negotiations between the two entities.

In a statement issued by the MoE, the perplexity at the GTU’s stance is palpable, especially given the ongoing engagement between the Ministry and the union.

The MoE highlights its steadfast commitment to addressing the concerns of educators, evident in the scheduled meetings and discussions aimed at improving teachers’ working conditions. These efforts underscore the MoE’s proactive approach to fostering dialogue and collaboration with the GTU.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the significant strides made by the MoE in addressing the GTU’s proposals for better working conditions.

Of the 41 proposals presented by the union, the MoE has diligently fulfilled 25 within a span of three years, reflecting a genuine effort to prioritise the welfare of teachers. While challenges remain in resolving the remaining issues, including salary increases and allowances, it’s evident that the MoE is actively evaluating these concerns for practical implementation and sustainability.

The ministry has taken proactive measures to streamline the teaching process and alleviate the burdens faced by educators.

Initiatives such as simplifying curriculum documentation, reducing administrative tasks, and providing training opportunities and financial grants for teaching materials underscore the MoE’s commitment to supporting teachers in their professional endeavors.

The MoE’s proactive stance in addressing these challenges, coupled with its unwavering commitment to dialogue and collaboration, sets a commendable precedent for constructive engagement within the education sector.

In light of the MoE’s demonstrable efforts to address the concerns raised by the GTU, we urge all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and negotiation in resolving differences. A collaborative approach, rooted in mutual respect and understanding, is essential to fostering a conducive environment for the advancement of education in Guyana.

Give the concerted efforts of the government, the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo urged teachers to reject the proposed strike action, noting that such actions reflect the duplicity of elements in the GTU and APNU+AFC.

During a press conference at Freedom House, he vehemently denounced the planned strike, labelling it as purely political and devoid of genuine concern for the grievances faced by teachers.
His remarks shed light on the dangerous trajectory of using education as a political tool rather than addressing substantive issues affecting our educators.

Jagdeo’s criticism of McDonald’s leadership and the political motives behind the strike call raise pertinent questions about the true intentions driving such actions.

It is crucial to contextualize this discourse within the broader historical and political landscape of Guyana. McDonald’s shifting stance, previously acknowledging favorable conditions for teachers under the PPP/C government and now leading a strike under the APNU+AFC coalition, underscores the entanglement of partisan interests in educational matters.

The Ministry of Education’s detailed response to the GTU’s proposals highlights the substantial progress made in fulfilling a significant portion of the union’s demands and improving the working conditions of teachers.

While challenges persist, ongoing efforts to examine unresolved issues and implement practical solutions underscore a commitment to constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Labour’s assertion that conditions for strike action have not been met underscores the importance of adhering to established protocols in addressing grievances. Any unilateral action outside legal frameworks risks undermining the integrity of the education system and jeopardizing the welfare of both educators and students.

The politicisation of education serves no one’s interests but only deepens divisions and impedes progress. As a nation, we must prioritise rational dialogue, evidence-based decisions, and collective efforts to address the systemic challenges facing our education sector. Only through genuine collaboration and mutual respect can we ensure a brighter future for all Guyanese students and educators alike.