Zimbabwean teachers have once again raised their voices over poor salaries and deteriorating working conditions, urging the government to respond to their longstanding grievances. Teachers’ unions have repeatedly called for an urgent salary review, but they claim that authorities have largely ignored their concerns.
The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has been at the forefront of the demands, with its secretary-general, Raymond Majongwe, formally requesting a meeting with Labour Minister Edgar Moyo. Majongwe pointed out that the last salary review discussions were held in 2024, and the government has yet to take any action in 2025. “We are almost done with the first quarter of 2025 without the government showing any signs of convening a meeting for a salary review,” Majongwe stated in his letter.
Similarly, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) has expressed its growing frustration over poor wages. Artuz secretary-general Robson Chere lamented that teachers are still earning what he termed “dog taxes,” a phrase underscoring the inadequacy of their salaries. “As a union, we are worried about the continued payment of very paltry salaries. At Artuz, we term these as ‘dog taxes,’” said Chere.
The dire financial situation of teachers has led unions to issue warnings of possible industrial action should the government continue ignoring their pleas. Chere emphasized that if no corrective measures are taken, teachers will have no choice but to resort to demonstrations and strikes to push for fair remuneration.
The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta), the country’s largest teachers’ union, has also backed the call for an urgent salary review. Zimta secretary-general Godwill Taderera underscored the need for teachers to earn at least US$1,000 per month, an increase from their previous demand of US$840.
“In 2018, teachers were earning US$540, and through research, we have established that we now deserve over US$1,000,” said Taderera. Zimta is advocating for an incremental salary adjustment plan until teachers reach their desired income. The union believes that a structured approach to salary adjustments will help ease the financial burden currently faced by teachers, many of whom struggle to make ends meet due to the high cost of living.
Despite repeated appeals from teachers’ unions, the government has remained largely silent on the matter. The lack of engagement has fueled dissatisfaction among educators, who argue that their patience is wearing thin. Many teachers find it increasingly difficult to afford necessities such as food, healthcare, and school fees for their children.
Union leaders warn that if the government fails to heed their demands, teachers will have no alternative but to take action. Strikes and mass protests are being considered as possible measures to force the government’s hand. “The situation is becoming unbearable for teachers. If the government does not engage with us soon, we will be left with no choice but to take action,” Chere warned.
The ongoing salary dispute between teachers and the government is not only a financial issue but also a matter of national concern. Teachers play a critical role in shaping the future of the country, and their dissatisfaction can have dire consequences on the education system. If teachers go on strike, thousands of students will be left without instruction, potentially jeopardizing their academic progress.
Furthermore, the continued exodus of qualified educators to neighboring countries, where salaries and working conditions are better, poses a serious risk to Zimbabwe’s education sector. Many teachers have opted to leave the country for better opportunities, leading to a shortage of experienced professionals in local schools.
To resolve the standoff, education stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize teachers’ welfare and engage in constructive dialogue with unions. A sustainable solution to the salary crisis would not only benefit teachers but also enhance the quality of education in Zimbabwe.
Teachers’ unions remain firm in their stance, emphasizing that they are not asking for luxuries but for fair compensation that reflects their contributions to society. Until their demands are met, the possibility of disruptions in the education sector remains high. As teachers continue to push for better wages, all eyes are on the government to see whether it will address their concerns or risk a full-scale strike that could cripple the education system.
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