The Libyan Teachers' Union has rejected being held solely responsible for the closure of schools, amid an ongoing open-ended sit-in protest that has entered its second month. According to the union, the decision to suspend classes came after years of unaddressed demands, appeals, and meetings with authorities. The union emphasized that teachers did not resort to the sit-in with the intention of disrupting the educational process.
The union stated that teachers have been driven to protest due to unfulfilled promises and unresolved issues related to their living conditions and dignity. They stressed that they are committed to the future of their students, but also have legitimate demands that need to be addressed. The union questioned why proposals to hold a sit-in in front of the Ministry of Education while continuing classes were not suggested during previous years of protests.
In response to calls for teachers to organize a sit-in while keeping schools open, the union asked why such suggestions were not made earlier, when teachers' concerns were first raised. They argued that blaming teachers for the school closures without addressing the root causes of the protests ignores the circumstances that led to this situation.
The Libyan Teachers' Union emphasized that they are committed to ensuring students' right to education and teachers' right to a dignified life. They believe that resolving the crisis requires addressing their demands and implementing their rights, rather than attacking teachers and holding them solely responsible for the school closures.
The union's statement was released on November 1, 2026, and was reported by Libya Al Ahrar TV. According to the union, their decision to suspend classes was made after exhausting all other avenues for addressing their concerns.
The ongoing sit-in protest by teachers in Libya has entered its second month, with no clear resolution in sight. The union's insistence on addressing their demands and the government's response to the situation will likely determine the course of the crisis.
The Libyan Teachers' Union's stance on the issue highlights the complexities of the situation and the need for a comprehensive solution that addresses the concerns of both teachers and the government. The situation remains a pressing issue in Libya, with implications for the country's education sector.
Key points
- The Libyan Teachers' Union rejects being held solely responsible for the closure of schools.
- The union insists on the legitimacy of their demands related to teachers' living conditions and dignity.
- Resolving the crisis requires addressing the union's demands and implementing their rights.
