ZIMTA demands that govt improves teachers’ USD sal...

ZIMTA demands that govt improves teachers’ USD salary

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association has called on the government to immediately address the teachers’ salaries issue by reviewing the United States Dollar component.

ZIMTA said it was important to address the current stalemate in negotiations with the government by convening a National Joint Negotiating Council.

The association stated that government should prioritise the livelihoods of teachers, ensuring fair compensation, improved working conditions and adequate support for retirees.

In a statement, the union said the continued disregard for teachers’ concerns could not be tolerated anymore.

“We urge the government to revert to the table and improve the USD salary, which is now the dominant currency in the market at about 85% circulation. The employer should take advantage of this call and correct salary structure discrepancies arising from the wrong manipulation of job grading in the civil service in general.

“Our dedicated teachers who tirelessly serve the public day in and day out, are grappling with abysmally low salaries that fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living.

“The lack of a fair and living wage not only undermines the morale and well-being of our members but also jeopardises our ability to provide for our families and to contribute meaningfully to aggregate demand in the economy,” reads the statement.

ZIMTA urged the government to engage in constructive dialogue to address the pressing issues facing teachers and retirees.

“Any procrastination of improved salaries beyond March 2024 will be a silent declaration of conflict of rights and interests likely to escalate to a dispute.

“Together we can create a more just and equitable future for all serving teachers and retirees in our nation,” the union said.

ZIMTA added that insufficient resources, lack of essential equipment and limited access to proper training are further worsening the challenges faced by teachers.

The union also implored government to address the plight of retirees who have dedicated their lives to public service.

“Many retired teachers are struggling to make ends meet, as their pensions fall short of covering necessities. The government’s failure to address the concerns of retirees and provide adequate support reflects a callous disregard for those who have served our country faithfully.”