Member of Libya's Presidential Council, Musa Al-Kuni, expressed disappointment over the government's inaction on the demands of the teachers' movement in Libya. This comes as teachers continue their strike and sit-in, which began in mid-September, to push for better financial and professional conditions. Al-Kuni made these remarks on the occasion of World Teachers' Day, which falls on October 5th every year.
Al-Kuni stated that the world honors teachers, citing the UNESCO theme for this year, which calls for improving teachers' conditions and supporting them. He added that the Libyan government should have remained in continuous session until the teachers' demands were met. The demands primarily focus on salaries, allowances, and improving working and living conditions for those in the education sector.
The General Syndicate of Libyan Teachers is adamant about several key demands, including the adoption of a unified and fair salary scale, payment of delayed financial differences and allowances, taking into account job grade, academic qualification, and years of experience. During a meeting between syndicates of teachers from Zawiya and Sorman, the General Secretary of the Teachers' Syndicate, Ramadan Hamum, emphasized the syndicate's commitment to securing the payment of due financial differences.
Hamum clarified that part of these financial differences dates back to entitlements that should have been implemented since 2023. He stressed that the syndicate will not back down from the teachers' demands, emphasizing the continuation of the strike and sit-in until they are achieved. Hamum also pointed out that the syndicate's movement does not aim to overthrow the government or the Education Minister but focuses on demanding teachers' rights.
Al-Kuni's stance comes amid ongoing debate over the impact of the continued strike on the educational process, with the syndicate insisting on its demands, while there is a need to ensure the regularity of study and that students are not affected. World Teachers' Day is celebrated on October 5th every year, commemorating the adoption of the ILO and UNESCO recommendation in 1966 concerning the status of teachers.
This recommendation established standards related to teachers' rights, responsibilities, professional preparation, employment, and working conditions. The celebration began globally in 1994, and UNESCO points to the need for millions of additional teachers by 2030 to achieve inclusive primary and secondary education, highlighting the importance of supporting the profession and improving working conditions.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by Libya's education sector and the importance of dialogue between the government and teachers to find solutions that address the concerns of both parties. As the strike continues, there is a growing concern about the impact on the academic year and the future of education in Libya.
Key points
- - Libyan Presidential Council member criticizes government's inaction on teachers' demands. - Teachers have been on strike since mid-September demanding better financial and professional conditions. - World Teachers' Day highlights the need for improved conditions and support for educators globally.
