Africa-Press – Namibia. THE Teachers Union of Namibia (TUN) has announced plans to have all teachers across the board and regions down tools after salary negotiations with the government reached a deadlock in May.
TUN secretary general Mahongora Kavihuha said TUN had been carrying out nationwide consultative meetings with teachers and staff members across the board and is in midst of working out the logistics which would lead to a standstill in the education sector.
Kavihuha although he could not provide a precise date stated that the “no increment-no work” stand-off will commence during the second half of the year in a period which he stated is imperative for both public servants and the employer.
He noted that the strike action was prompted by recent labour disputes by other unions and the government which remained unresolved.
Kavihuha stated that the fact that teachers have not received a salary increment over the past five years is especially felt due to rising inflation levels in recent times.
The Namibia Public Workers Union (Napwu) and the Namibia National Teachers’ Union (Nantu) in May informed their members that conciliation resumed on 23 May 2022 and parties reached a deadlock.
The two unions requested an increment of 5% for the 2022/23 financial year, a 9% increment for housing allowance and a 10% increase for transport allowance, as well as an additional 10% for motor vehicle allowance.
The government, however, continues to maintain 0% on salaries and only responded to give increments on benefits.
“For the past five to six years we have never had a salary increment, yet we were lenient on government even though workers suffocated under the rising costs of living. The employer is not sensitive, and does not seem to care for the plight of the workers,” Kavihuha said.
He further stated that the union demands an increment no lower than 10%.
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