The recent decision by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) to resume strike action has evoked a mixed reaction in Linden, a mining town in Guyana.
Our team visited several schools in the area to capture the situation on the ground.
At the Linden Foundation Secondary School, our cameras observed that while some schools were locked, others were open and classes were in session.
Art teacher Vanburn Browne noted that 15 teachers were present along with fifth form students who are currently writing the CSEC Examination.
Browne expressed confidence that more students would attend in the coming days.
Fifth Former Jada Gordon shared her perspective on the strike, expressing a mix of nervousness and confidence.
She recalled how the strike earlier in February had negatively impacted her exam preparations.
Regma Primary School saw only 25% of teachers present, with just two students attending.
Similarly, at the Republic Drive Nursery School, only the Headteacher was present.
Meanwhile, McKenzie High School had some teachers present, with students from the lower school and fifth formers attending classes.
However, Amelia’s Ward Primary School and McKenzie Primary School had locked gates, and only a minimal number of staff and students were present.
The GTU has cited the government’s refusal to engage in collective bargaining as the reason for the strike.
The government claims to have addressed more than 60 percent of the issues raised by the union and assures teachers that they are working in their best interest.
As the strike action continues, the situation remains dynamic, with educators, students, and the government engaged in ongoing dialogue to address the concerns raised by the teachers’ union.
Jacquey Bourne reporting for NCN News.