Letter of the Day | Review wage structure for basic school teachers

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I write to bring national attention to the ongoing and deeply troubling plight of basic school teachers in Jamaica — educators who lay the very foundation of our education system, yet who have been sidelined and neglected for far too long.

Basic school teachers play an essential role in shaping the minds and futures of our youngest citizens. They are the pillars upon which our entire education system is built. Despite this, their compensation has remained inadequate and unchanged for years. Those employed at government-sponsored institutions receive a small subsidy through the Early Childhood Commission, with a minimal supplemental amount contributed by the school’s sponsors.

Shockingly, this government subsidy has not been increased in over 15 years, even as the cost of living continues to rise dramatically. Inflation has impacted every sector, yet these teachers have been left behind.

The reality is dire. Most basic schools struggle to stay afloat. Fee collections are insufficient to cover operational costs, utility bills, and payments for ancillary staff. Consequently, many schools are unable to provide their teachers with any substantial remuneration. In many cases, teachers are forced to survive on a gross monthly pay of just $33,254.68 — with no benefits, no pension, and no job security. This figure falls significantly below Jamaica’s minimum wage in most instances.

It is important to note that this amount represents what teachers who are trained in the basic school system through workshops and seminars receive from the Government through the Early Childhood Commission. Other educators across the public education sector, paid directly by the Ministry of Education, have received several salary adjustments over the years — adjustments that have not included basic school teachers. This exclusion is both unjust and disheartening.

Yet, despite these harsh realities, our basic school teachers continue to serve with extraordinary dedication, love, and perseverance. Their commitment to their students and their belief in the power of education are what keep many of them in the classroom, even in the face of financial hardship.

I am therefore making a formal appeal to the Ministry of Education and the Early Childhood Commission to urgently review and reform the wage structure for basic school teachers. These educators deserve to be recognised, respected, and fairly compensated for the vital work they do. A liveable wage is not a luxury — it is a necessity.

INGRID BATCHELOR

St Catherine