State of the teachers address
Monday, August 17, 2015
Of late we see a ministry which does not have a single regard for trade unions, we see a ministry which does not consider relevant and necessary to consult with trade unions, we see a ministry which boast of enforcing punitive directives on teachers. We see a ministry with intensions to destroy all initiatives we had put in place in our relationship building process with the out gone Minister. I am obliged and committed as the leader of this mighty progressive union to force this stubborn ministry understand that we exist as a major partner in education of our beloved country and we have a major role to play in the educational development of this country.
We have a recognition agreement with the employer. We are not demanding favours in this regard. It’s a binding agreement and needs to be respected by all. I need to reiterate that transformation of our country’s education is not solely the responsibility of the ministry. Trade unions are a must participate group in this process. I therefore challenge all BTU structures to make an impact at their level of operations.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...