The National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) is appealing to the Republican President, His Excellence Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, to quickly intervene over the deteriorating matter of debt swap for teachers and other public service workers.
NAQEZ Executive Director Aaron Chansa says in the last 25hrs, thousands of teachers across Zambia have expressed shock over the government recoveries which have suddenly appeared on pay slips of civil servants.
He says many teachers are now depressed, disoriented and frustrated about this impending calamity.
“We are aware that the issue of debt swap and debt restructuring was laced with alot of political sentiments and perspectives. But the fact of the matter is that the facility benefited teachers and education hugely .This is because more than 90% of our teachers are heavily indebted and are finding it hard to cope up with life and teaching”. He said
“We are 100% confident that our President will take special interest in this matter and provide guidance in the best interest of teachers and education. Proceeding with sudden recoveries from already impoverished teachers will spell doom for thousands of educators and their families. As an organization that promotes the welfare of teachers, we would not want learners in schools to be handled by teachers who would be wounded .It would be suicidal for education”. He added
Mr.Chansa says that, if the government does not favor debt restructuring for teachers, let teachers be upgraded in correct salary scales, confirm teachers in substantive positions and significantly increase salaries next year.
