The president of Guinea's Free Teachers and Researchers Union (SLECG), Aboubacar Soumah, has spoken out against recent government announcements regarding the recruitment of new teachers. On September 21, Soumah addressed the press at a meeting organized by the education intersyndicale in Conakry. He expressed concerns that the government's plans may undermine agreements outlined in a protocol signed between education unions and the government. Soumah emphasized that the current situation involves defending the rights of education sector workers.
Soumah stated that the unions cannot remain inactive in the face of what they consider to be a violation of their commitments. He noted that over 8,000 teachers are to be recruited, but certain announced dispositions may not align with the agreed-upon protocol. The union leader argued that any recruitment procedure disregarding the protocol's provisions constitutes sufficient grounds for the unions to mobilize. Soumah's comments reflect the concerns of Guinea's education sector unions.
According to Soumah, the September 21 press conference aimed to express the unions' position on the government's alleged violation, which could compromise the implementation of the signed protocol. The protocol was signed by Minister Bourouno, who, as a signatory, had committed to upholding its terms. Soumah's statements highlight the tensions between the government and education unions in Guinea.
The SLECG president emphasized that his union's stance is a continuation of discussions held within various education unions. He noted that the sentiments expressed during the press conference were previously discussed in general assemblies held by the different unions. Soumah's comments reflect a unified front among Guinea's education unions.
Soumah's opposition to the government's recruitment plans stems from concerns about the potential disregard for established protocols. He argued that the announced recruitment process may not respect the agreed-upon dispositions, prompting the unions to take a stand. The SLECG and other education unions are determined to defend their rights and interests.
The situation has sparked concerns about the potential impact on Guinea's education sector. With over 8,000 new teachers set to be recruited, the unions' opposition may have significant implications for the sector. The government and education unions will need to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences and find a mutually beneficial solution.
Aboubacar Soumah's statements underscore the determination of Guinea's education unions to defend their rights and interests. The SLECG president concluded by emphasizing the importance of upholding the agreements signed between the unions and the government. The situation remains a pressing concern for the education sector in Guinea.
Key points
- Aboubacar Soumah denounces gov't recruitment plans as violating agreed-upon protocols.