Teaching, notably one of the most honourable professions in society may be on of the most undermined. The twelve years the average child spends in the education system are an immense influence in their life and teacher’s can make or break a child’s future ambitions and dreams. If these people have enormous influence on the progression of our future generations, why is it that their remuneration is minimal in comparison to the impact on society?
In recent months South Africa has been marred by civil service strikes; which involved two major sectors; health workers and teachers downed tools demanding wage increases, leaving their departments at a virtual stand still.
Teachers began to strike at a crucial period of the academic calendar, prior to end of year exams. It could be said that students were jubilant when lessons were cancelled. Drama’s played out typical of a “Nollywood” script, as threats of union rogues hijacking schools of teachers who refused to strike hit the headlines and sent parents into an inflated panic to rescue their children from Model C ambush.
It is a hearted concern for teachers to receive fair pay for the service they provide us. However the manner in which their protest was conducted brings into question the underlying value of this fine profession. Granted governments globally have failed to give those in the service the necessary dignity but what was their purpose in entering the field. Doctors train because they want to heal. Therefore teachers should teach because they want to inspire and ignite generations of greatness.
The South African Democratic Teachers Union’s decision to strike in that manner stripped the profession of its nobility. Simply labelling it a profession, no longer a passion.
Yes I said it...
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