The 4 teachers sacrificing at Muntu primary school amid pay strike

As teachers across the country enter week four of their industrial action against salary disparities, it is no different in the Amolatar district. The strike’s impact on local education is becoming increasingly evident.

During a visit to Muntu Primary School, our Amolatar-based correspondent, Sarah Ejang, encountered empty classrooms from Primary One to Primary Six.

However, in a rare sight amid the emptiness, she found Wece Tom, a teacher for Primary Seven diligently preparing his candidates for the forthcoming Primary Leaving Examination (PLE).

Wece explained that despite the industrial action, he and three other teachers out of seventeen have chosen to assist their P7 candidates.

Their dedication and compassion, even while facing criticism from fellow teachers participating in the strike is beyond imagination.

Ejang and other reporters travelled to Aberler Primary School. There, they spoke with a teacher who requested anonymity. He also confirmed that only Primary Seven candidates were receiving assistance, while the other classes remained unattended during this critical time.

Recognising the void left in government schools, the reporters decided to explore how private institutions were faring amidst the crisis. At Destiny Primary School, headteacher Ocen Robert expressed confidence in his school’s ability to provide quality education.

He reported an influx of new pupils from government schools, indicating that parents are seeking alternatives for their children’s education during this tumultuous period.

At Ebenezer Nursery and Boarding Primary School, a similar scene unfolded. Headteacher Odur Emmanuel shared that they had welcomed over 30 new students from government schools in just one day.

He is inviting parents to consider their institution as a supportive place for their children’s education during these challenging times

Opon Geoffrey, Director of Storm Nursery and Boarding Primary School, expressed his sorrow over the plight of children affected by the government school strike. While his school continues to offer education, he acknowledged that the ripple effects of the strike touch every child in the community.

Further highlighting the broader implications of the strike, Odongo Sam, chairperson of the business community, has urged children forced to stay home during the strike to maintain discipline and respect within the community.

His appeal underscores the vital role education plays not only in personal development but also in nurturing responsible future citizens.

As the strike continues, the divide between public and private education options becomes more pronounced, raising concerns about educational equity and the future of countless students in the Amolatar district.

The resolve of some teachers to continue supporting their learners highlights a commendable dedication to education, even in the face of the government.