By Nakasia Logan
Following more than seven hours of mediation in the High Court, the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) and the Ministry of Education have reached an agreement, paving the way for teachers to return to classrooms starting Wednesday, March 6.
Attorneys Darren Wade and Dharshan Ramdhani, representing the GTU, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the mediation process.
They emphasized the importance of good faith and commitment from both sides to address the concerns raised by teachers.
During the mediation, the GTU pushed for comprehensive discussions on various issues, including salaries, working conditions, and other non-financial matters.
The government, represented by Senior Counsel Edward Lukhoo and Robin Stoby, reiterated its commitment to engage with the union and address teachers’ concerns.
President of the GTU, Mark Lyte, assured teachers that their interests would be vigorously pursued.
He highlighted the importance of the agreement in addressing both financial and non-financial issues affecting educators.
Lyte emphasized the union’s dedication to securing a substantial package for teachers.
With the agreement in place, discussions between the GTU and the Ministry of Education are set to commence within 24 hours.
The mediation process allowed for productive dialogue on critical issues impacting teachers, laying the groundwork for future negotiations.
The GTU has proposed a significant salary increase of 25% for 2019 and 20% for the period of 2020 to 2023, among other proposals aimed at improving working conditions and addressing educators’ concerns.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of all workers in Guyana.
He assured that the government would work responsibly to address the needs of teachers and ensure a conducive environment for quality education.
As teachers prepare to return to classrooms, there is optimism for constructive dialogue and positive outcomes in the ongoing negotiations between the GTU and the Ministry of Education.