TEWU Announces Strike Action from September 19 Over Delayed Conditions of Service
The Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) has declared its intention to embark on a nationwide strike starting September 19, 2025, due to prolonged delays in finalizing and signing their Conditions of Service. The decision comes after months of frustration over stalled negotiations and unfulfilled promises by authorities, leaving the union with no option but to resort to industrial action to press their demands.
Background of the Dispute
TEWU, representing thousands of educational workers across the country, has been engaged in negotiations with the government and relevant stakeholders to review and update their Conditions of Service. These conditions outline critical aspects of their employment, including salaries, allowances, working hours, and other benefits essential to their welfare and professional growth. However, the union claims that the process has been marred by bureaucratic delays, lack of commitment, and insufficient progress in addressing their concerns.
According to TEWU leadership, the failure to finalize and sign the Conditions of Service has left members grappling with outdated terms that no longer reflect the economic realities or the demands of their roles. Rising inflation, coupled with stagnant wages, has further exacerbated the financial strain on teachers and educational workers, prompting the union to take a firm stand.
Reasons for the Strike
The decision to strike was reached after multiple attempts to resolve the issue through dialogue proved fruitless. TEWU has expressed disappointment over what they describe as “a lack of urgency” from the government in addressing their grievances. Key issues include:
- Delayed Negotiations: The prolonged timeline for concluding discussions on the Conditions of Service has left workers in limbo, with no clear resolution in sight.
- Outdated Benefits: Current terms do not adequately address the rising cost of living, leaving workers struggling to make ends meet.
- Lack of Commitment: TEWU accuses the authorities of failing to prioritize the welfare of educational workers, despite their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
In a statement, TEWU’s leadership emphasized that the strike is a last resort to compel the government to act swiftly. “We have been patient, we have negotiated in good faith, but the delays are unacceptable. Our members deserve better, and we will not sit idly while our concerns are ignored,” a TEWU spokesperson said.
Impact of the Strike
The planned strike, set to begin on September 19, 2025, is expected to significantly disrupt educational activities across the country. Schools, particularly public institutions, may face closures or reduced operations as teachers and non-teaching staff withdraw their services. This could affect students’ learning schedules, examination preparations, and overall academic progress, especially in the lead-up to critical academic periods.
Parents, students, and other stakeholders are bracing for the impact, with many expressing mixed sentiments. While some sympathize with TEWU’s demands for fair treatment, others worry about the toll on students, particularly those in underserved communities who rely heavily on public education.
Government Response
As of now, the government has yet to issue an official response to TEWU’s strike announcement. However, sources indicate that efforts are underway to resume talks in a bid to avert the industrial action. The Ministry of Education and other relevant bodies are reportedly under pressure to address the union’s demands before the September 19 deadline.
TEWU’s Call to Members
TEWU has urged its members to remain united and resolute as they prepare for the strike. The union has also called on the public to support their cause, emphasizing that improved working conditions for educational workers will ultimately benefit the quality of education in the country. “This is not just about us; it’s about ensuring a better future for our students and the nation as a whole,” the union stated.
Looking Ahead
The impending strike underscores the broader challenges facing the education sector, including underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and the need for comprehensive reforms. As the September 19 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government and TEWU to see if a last-minute resolution can be reached to prevent the disruption of academic activities.
TEWU has vowed to proceed with the strike unless tangible progress is made in finalizing and signing the Conditions of Service. The coming days will be critical in determining whether dialogue can prevail or if the education sector will face significant upheaval.
For now, the nation waits anxiously as the clock ticks toward September 19, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the welfare of educational workers and the continuity of learning for students.
