Back to school conditional on the payment of teachers’ salaries in Pangi (Maniema) – August 2023
The start of the school year in the territory of Pangi, located in the province of Maniema, has experienced a major obstacle this year. The teachers made the resumption of classes conditional on the payment of their salaries for the months of July and August. They expressed their dissatisfaction at an extraordinary general meeting, where they also raised other claims regarding the rights which are not being paid to them.
According to the teachers’ spokesman, Emile Katabi, the government has not respected the agreements signed with the unions. As a result, the teachers decided not to resume classes until their salaries were regularized. They also demanded the payment of the free bonus for the month of February and March, as well as the increase in their salaries.
The situation escalated during this assembly, with scuffles between the teachers. These tensions show the frustration and despair of teachers, who feel neglected and disregarded by the authorities.
This condition set by teachers highlights the difficulties facing the Congolese education system. Teachers’ salaries are often late or even unpaid, leading to widespread disorganization and discontent.
It is essential that the government take action to address these issues and ensure that teachers can practice their profession in decent conditions. Education is a fundamental pillar of a country’s development, and it is imperative to support teachers, who play a key role in training future generations.
This incident in Pangi highlights the broader challenges facing education in the DRC. It stresses the need for a more in-depth reform of the education system, which includes in particular an improvement in the working conditions and salaries of teachers, as well as better management of the financial resources allocated to education.
Back to school is a crucial time for children and families, and ensuring an environment conducive to learning is essential. It is therefore imperative that the authorities take into consideration the legitimate claims of teachers and find lasting solutions to solve the recurring problems of the Congolese education system.
The situation in Pangi is a reminder of the importance of valuing and supporting teachers, who play a vital role in building a better future for Congolese youth. They deserve to be adequately compensated and recognized for their invaluable contribution to society