(Gambiaj.com – BANJUL, The Gambia) – Tensions have escalated between The Gambia Teachers’ Union (GTU) and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs over delayed payments for Senior Secondary School (SSS) Board salaries and School Improvement Grants (SIG) for mission schools as teachers prepare to strike on Monday, December 2, 2024.

In a press release issued on November 30, 2024, the GTU announced plans for industrial action, citing the government’s failure to pay November salaries for affected schools. The union emphasized that repeated attempts to resolve the issue through dialogue had been ignored, causing financial strain on teachers and school operations.

“This industrial action is an urgent and necessary response to the Ministry of Finance’s blatant disregard for the livelihoods of teachers and ancillary staff,” said Ismaila Ceesay, President of the GTU. He warned that if the government does not address the issue by the close of business on December 3, 2024, the strike could expand to all categories and levels of schools across the country.

The GTU reaffirmed its commitment to protecting teachers’ rights, urging solidarity among its members and vowing to hold the government accountable for timely payments in the future.

In response, the Ministry of Finance released a statement on December 1, 2024, asserting that all payments had been processed on Friday, November 29, 2024, according to schedule. The Ministry reassured stakeholders of its dedication to supporting the education sector and minimizing disruptions.

“We acknowledge the important role of our teachers and the need for timely disbursement of funds,” the Ministry’s statement read. “All payments have been processed, and we remain committed to collaboration with stakeholders to address any challenges.”

Despite the Ministry’s assurances, the GTU has not withdrawn its call for industrial action, leaving uncertainty over the resumption of classes on Monday. The dispute highlights ongoing concerns about financial management and communication within the education sector.

As students and parents brace for potential disruptions, the GTU and the government face mounting pressure to resolve the standoff. Both sides have expressed a willingness to collaborate, but the path to resolution remains unclear.