National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) says the 2024 Teachers’ day commemorations, to be held tomorrow, will not make sense because there are many unresolved issues that affect the teaching profession and the Teachers’ wellbeing.
NAQEZ Executive Director, Aaron Chansa, says among the issues, NAPSA, under the current conditions fails to offer retired workers lump-sum payments, leaving teachers across the country with uncertainty about their poverty-threatening futures.
“Until the necessary amendments are made to the NAPSA Act, the majority of teachers who contribute to this fund will continue to feel frustrated and undervalued,” said Dr. Chansa in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He bemoaned that teachers are left to celebrate their annual day in a state of discontent, instead of being recognised and appreciated accordingly.
“NAQEZ believes that, in line with this year’s theme, “valuing Teacher voice, towards a new social contract for education,” Teachers in Zambia must be heard and respected not just through ceremonial acts, but through actionable reforms,” said Dr. Chansa.
He said it is time for a new mode of rewarding teachers which includes a reasonable salary increment, upgraded salary scales, timely confirmations, decent accommodation, settling-in allowances and environments conducive to effective teaching.
By Eva Hatontola
