LETTER: Students Must Come First: A Call for Responsibility Amidst Industrial Action

Students Must Come First: A Call for Responsibility Amidst Industrial Action

As a teacher who has devoted years to the noble profession of educating our nation’s youth, I write not out of contempt for my colleagues, but out of deep concern for the path we have recently chosen. While I respect the right of workers to demand better conditions, monies owed, and special allowances, I cannot support the recent industrial action taken by my fellow educators. At this critical time—on the eve of regional CXC examinations—our students must come first.

I began my journey as a teacher several years before and completed my “Teacher Training” between 2008 and 2010, under the then-United Progressive Party (UPP) administration. Despite undergoing teacher training during a time of global recession and national economic strain, I remained committed to my students, even when my own upgrade was delayed. The then-union president told me that we had to wait because the government was strapped for cash. I showed patience and professionalism, even though I was not a UPP supporter but a proud supporter of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). My loyalty, however, has always been to education and to the young minds entrusted to us. Some teachers today are too political, and loyalty to their party frequently precedes professionalism and commitment to the profession.

Today, under an ABLP government that has extended tangible benefits to teachers, I find it difficult to justify this strike. The facts speak clearly: the government has already begun payments to teachers due for their allowances. Only six teachers remain with discrepancies—a number that hardly justifies the disruption of the entire education system. This action, taken by a freshly elected union executive, seems less about principle and more about flexing political muscle in the wake of their internal victory. Leadership must be rooted in responsibility, not opportunism.

To add to that, this government has demonstrated a sustained and friendly posture toward teachers. Not only did it provide an extra salary to augment delayed payments, but it also granted a 9% salary increase in 2024, opened up avenues for teachers to own homes valued at $600,000 for half the cost, and offered land and housing concessions aimed at improving the quality of life for educators. Additionally, the dedicated insurance benefit for teachers through the State Insurance Corporation is a progressive step that must be recognized.

These are not the actions of a government antagonistic to educators. In fact, they reflect an administration that values and supports the teaching profession. While the recent remarks made by the Prime Minister were frank, we must separate direct language from policy. One frank comment should not erase a history of commitment to teachers’ welfare.

Furthermore, some union supporters have leaned on false or skewed narratives—such as the claim that the government irresponsibly funded the Alfa Nero’s maintenance—ignoring the fact that all such expenses were covered by the sale of the vessel. These kinds of misleading arguments do a disservice to our cause and damage public trust.

Let us be honest: we are not without grievance. But grievances must be weighed against timing and consequence. At this moment, with students preparing for their final assessments, to strike is not just premature—it is reckless. Our students need us now more than ever, seeking clarification and reassurance before their exams. When we walk off the job, we do not hurt the ministry; we hurt our children.

I implore Mr. Casroy Charles and the entire union executive to reflect. Leadership demands not just boldness, but wisdom and restraint. The battlefield must be entered only when all diplomatic doors are closed—and with the right tools, the right facts, and above all, the right cause.

As for me, I stand not with disruption, but with dedication. I stand for our students. Let us resolve our concerns in a manner that honors our profession, respects our responsibilities, and most importantly, prioritizes the success of our children.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]