Fatshimétrie: Teachers Demand $1 Billion to End Strike
In a poignant statement, the Synergy of Teachers’ Unions of the Democratic Republic of Congo has launched an urgent appeal to the government to allocate an amount of $3.6 billion to the education sector. This request aims to resolve the crisis currently shaking the Congolese education system, undermined by a persistent strike.
According to Jean-Bosco Puna, spokesperson for the union organization, this massive investment is essential to allow teachers to resume their activities with peace of mind. He stressed that the current salary of teachers is largely insufficient to meet their basic needs, especially in rural areas.
Indeed, the monthly salary of a teacher in Kinshasa is only $150, without any additional financial benefits. For those working in remote areas, this amount is even lower, reaching only $101. This precarious situation constitutes a real obstacle to the professional development of teachers and directly affects the quality of education provided to students.
Jean-Bosco Puna stressed the crucial importance of taking into account all the expenses that teachers face on a daily basis, such as transportation, housing, health care and food for their families. He highlighted the fact that sacrificing one’s personal situation in the name of patriotism cannot be sustainable in the long term.
Faced with this impasse, the Synergy of Teachers’ Unions of Congo has decided to maintain the pressure by maintaining the strike movement in public schools. This action aims to draw the attention of the authorities to the urgency of the situation and the need for a rapid and effective response.
In conclusion, the call of Congolese teachers to receive adequate financial support to carry out their educational mission is legitimate and essential. Investing in education is investing in the future of the Congolese nation. It is time for the government to take concrete measures to respond to the legitimate demands of teachers and ensure a better future for Congolese youth.