Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has called for the resuscitation and revamp of the country’s education sector to restore the dignity and respect deserved by teachers.
In a statement to commemorate, the International Day of Education under the theme “learning for lasting peace”, ARTUZ described the education sector as being in a “dire state.”
“The plight of educators in our schools is distressing, and we refuse to remain silent any longer. Teachers have tirelessly advocated for salary increases, only to have their pleas fall on deaf ears. Recently, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education callously shattered their hopes by suggesting that teachers should be content with their current compensation.”
ARTUZ also pointed out the detrimental impact of poor teacher welfare, stating that it has created divisions within the profession.
“Some have aligned themselves politically, while others feel betrayed and abandoned. Union leaders may urge us to stay home, but we refuse to be burdened with debts while our rights are trampled upon,” the union said.
The union also expressed regret for the decline in Zimbabwe’s literacy rate, which they attributed to poor policy implementation and exorbitant fee hikes.
“The modularisation system in tertiary institutions, touted as a solution, has been met with widespread criticism for its lack of quality and transparency in adoption procedures. The education sector is the lifeblood of our nation, supplying intellectual and practical expertise to all stakeholders. We cannot allow it to be toyed with, imposing decisions without proper consultation and information dissemination.”
The teachers called for an education system that ensures the equitable inclusion of all major stakeholders.
“Education is often hailed as the key to success, but how can we unlock success when the playing field remains tilted against us? The responsible authorities, who are duty-bound to protect and nurture our education system, must step up and address the dire situation we face,” ARTUZ argued.
The union demanded the restoration of civil servants’ US$300 allowance without tax deduction.
“The government’s decision to convert the allowance into a salary was met with hope, only to be shattered by inadequate disposable income. It is a fundamental labour principle that an employee’s salary should not be subject to reduction for any reason. Civil servants have long been demanding a salary of US$1260 per month. This demand for justice and fair remuneration echoes throughout our ranks,” said ARTUZ.
