Article: The Synergy of Teachers’ Unions in the DRC calls for a peaceful return to school
The Synergy of Teachers’ Unions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) held its general meeting to assess the 2022-2023 school year in Kinshasa. During this meeting, she recommended that the government pay the new salary scale to guarantee a peaceful return to school.
Synergie teachers believe that the new salary scale is necessary to meet the current cost of living. They also demand the suspension of the tax of 10,000 FC (Congolese Francs) which has been arbitrarily deducted from their salaries, and ask the government to reimburse the loss of earnings since last April.
In addition to these wage demands, the Synergy of teachers’ unions recommends that the government consolidate free basic education by building new schools. They also advocate the payment of a uniform salary and bonus for all primary school teachers.
Synergie spokesman Jean-Bosco Puna said: “We are calling for all primary school teachers to be paid a standardized salary and bonus. The state will also have to increase the operating costs of schools and management offices.”
The Synergy of Teachers’ Unions in the DRC also reminds the government that only compliance with its commitments will allow a peaceful return to school for the year 2023-2024.
The Minister of Primary, Secondary and Technical Education (EPST), Tony Mwaba, expressed the government’s desire to invest in a good return to school in the DRC during the work of the joint Government-trade union committee.
It is essential that the government take into account the legitimate demands of teachers in order to ensure a peaceful return to school. Dignified salaries and improved working conditions are essential to motivate and enhance the teaching profession in the DRC. Building new schools and increasing operating costs are also priorities to ensure quality education for all Congolese children.
Awaiting a positive response from the government, teachers in the DRC continue to mobilize to defend their rights and ensure the best possible education for future generations