Y Shikato Sumi
President ANSTA Zbto Unit
I was on my way to work as usual one recent morning and came across some of my fellow Teachers conversing by the road side. After exchanging wishes, I asked whether they shall be going for duties, to which, one of the teachers replied that they are not, as they are boycotting duties for non-payment of salaries for many months. And this is how our short conversation culminated relating their woes.
It is a screaming disgrace on the part of the Government in treating the people responsible for one of the most important roles in our society so poorly. It is amazing as to how the concerned so called guardians can reduce the teachers to a state of begging. The children’s education is being jeopardized and our daily necessities being met through borrowings have become beyond overdue and our honesty (As Teachers) is being compromised and at stake. We are wondering whether it is a “Starvation wage or living wage”. The concerned Authority should know that, teaching profession is a demanding one, it is we that impart skills and knowledge, help in character building and development, manage school routines and considered as counselors and role model for the children both at home and at school. But, given the present situation if persists, then their future looks bleak in the coming days. One wonders as to whether teachers appointed under certain flagships are being placed in racism or race order. The sacrificial work of the teachers, are least considered in terms of recognition and now we are made to stoop so low to the extent of weeping for our rightful dues. The responsible Government/Authority should remember that adequate and timely disbursement of salaries attracts and retains the best in the teaching profession. However turning deaf ear to the cry of the teachers is showing its affect on the institutions as we have to boycott the classes and the students are at the receiving end, specially, during the last stage of the academic session. The performances and results of the students should not be reflected on the teacher’s sincerity.
Because, we have relentlessly performed our duties as required of us and have endured enough for so many months. We are now at the helms of questioning the Authenticity of the Government’s credential and credibility towards human recourses and development for the younger generations. And just in the midst of our conversation, I remembered that, I was getting late and excused myself, wished them good luck and expressed solidarity to their just demand and left them to continue their conversation.
While sharing sentiments to fellow fraternity and the affected students, I would like to urge the Authority to be sympathetic and expedite in every possible manner in releasing the due salaries at the earliest as they have endured beyond imagination.
