The Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) has called for a 50 per cent increase in the base pay of public sector workers as preparations begin for fresh salary negotiations with the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations.
According to TEWU, the demand has become necessary due to the continuous rise in the cost of living, which has severely eroded the purchasing power of workers. The union cited escalating utility tariffs, frequent fuel price adjustments, and general inflationary pressures as major factors worsening the financial conditions of teachers and other educational workers.
In a statement, TEWU emphasized that a substantial pay adjustment is the only fair measure that can help restore the real value of workers’ earnings and provide them with a decent standard of living. The union warned that without meaningful intervention, many public sector employees would continue to struggle to meet their basic needs.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, has acknowledged the legitimacy of the union’s concerns. He assured that government remains committed to engaging all stakeholders in good faith during the upcoming negotiations.
Dr. Pelpuo added that while the government is mindful of workers’ challenges, it must also balance wage demands with the state’s fiscal capacity. He expressed optimism that both sides will reach a fair and sustainable agreement to address the needs of workers without destabilizing the economy.
