The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has called on the government to prioritise the education sector and invest in teachers’ financial security, taking into account their qualifications, experience, and daily concerns.
In commemorating World Teachers Day on October 5, under the Global theme, ‘The teachers we need for the education we want: The global imperative to reverse teacher shortages,’ ARTUZ stated that the teacher shortage in Zimbabwe is purposefully manufactured by paying teachers slave wages in the local weak currency.
Teachers, according to ARTUZ, play a critical role in molding society by cultivating the minds of future generations.
“In accordance with this theme, we are concerned with the status quo of inadequate remuneration for our educators. It is an injustice that teachers, the architects of our nation’s future, are undervalued and underpaid. We will not tolerate this blatant disregard for their invaluable contributions. They dedicate themselves to imparting knowledge, instilling values, and fostering critical thinking skills,” said ARTUZ in a statement.
According to the union, teachers often face daunting challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, and demanding expectations.
“Despite these circumstances, teachers remain steadfast in their commitment to providing quality education. It is high time our teachers receive the compensation they deserve, a living wage paid in US dollars, that truly reflects the importance of their role in shaping society. Adequate remuneration is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right (as per Section 65 of the Constitution) as such we demand action from the government to resolve the glaring disparities in teacher remuneration,” said ARTUZ.
The teachers’ union said teachers can no longer accept empty promises and excuses.
“Government must prioritise the education sector by investing in the financial stability of our teachers. This means regular salary reviews that keep pace with inflation rates and provide wages that enable them to meet the rising cost of living. It is an investment in the future of our nation, a recognition of the critical role teachers play in shaping society,” said the union.
ARTUZ said it is imperative to create avenues for meaningful dialogue and collaboration between teachers, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
“Only through inclusive decision-making can we achieve lasting, positive change. For far too long, our voices have echoed through the corridors of power, and it is high time those occupying those corridors pay heed to our call,” said the union.
“Today, we stand resolute in our commitment to challenge the systemic neglect that has plagued our education system for far too long. We will not rest until our demands are met, until our teachers receive the remuneration they deserve.”
ARTUZ said they will continue to rally for change to reverberate across the nation.
“We will not be silenced. Our teachers deserve better, and we will fight until they receive it. We want an education system that empowers educators, uplifts learners, and paves the way for a brighter future,” they said.
