The second day of the Algerian primary school teachers' strike was marked by a national gathering in front of the Ministry of Education's annex in Algiers. The teachers, who are demanding that their concerns be addressed, had been called to observe a national sit-in by the National Coordination of Primary School Teachers. Dozens of educators from various wilayas attended the event, holding banners with slogans such as "We want the implementation of the presidential decree" and "The dignity of the teacher is above all considerations."
The protesters chanted slogans like "Peaceful, peaceful, our demands are legitimate" and expressed their determination to continue their protest until their demands are met. According to the National Coordination of Primary School Teachers, the strike was motivated by the government's indifference to their concerns. The teachers are seeking a comprehensive response to their demands, which include revising school programs, adjusting vacation and school start dates for southern regions, and modifying their special status.
The teachers are also calling for the immediate implementation of Presidential Decree No. 266/14, with retroactive effect from its publication in 2014, and the recruitment of supervisors to oversee students in schoolyards and canteens. This would allow teachers to focus on their pedagogical tasks. Additionally, they are requesting the creation of new teacher grades for scientific, literary, and physical education subjects. The protesters emphasized their commitment to finding a solution through dialogue.
The sit-in was a show of unity among primary school teachers, who came from different regions to voice their concerns. The event demonstrated the determination of educators to push for changes that they believe are essential to improving the education system. The teachers' union emphasized that the strike will continue until the authorities take concrete steps to address their demands.
Some of the key demands of the teachers include reclassifying primary, middle, and secondary school teachers under the same base grade and reducing their workload. They also want the government to take into account the specific needs of teachers in the southern regions. The protesters stressed that their demands are legitimate and that they are willing to work with the authorities to find solutions.
The strike has highlighted the challenges faced by Algerian teachers, who are seeking better working conditions and a more prominent role in the education system. The government has not yet responded to the teachers' demands, but the protesters remain hopeful that their concerns will be heard. The strike is a significant development in the education sector, and its impact on the country's education system remains to be seen.
As the strike continues, parents and students are closely watching the situation, hoping that a resolution will be reached soon. The teachers' union has reiterated its commitment to finding a peaceful solution, but the protesters are determined to continue their action until their demands are met. The situation remains tense, with no clear end to the strike in sight.
Key points
- Algerian primary school teachers are demanding changes to their working conditions, including the implementation of a presidential decree and the creation of new teacher grades.
- The strike is a response to the government's inaction on the teachers' concerns, which include revising school programs and adjusting vacation dates.
- The protesters are determined to continue their action until their demands are met, and the situation remains tense.
