NAQEZ Calls For Amendment Of NAPSA Act AS Teachers Commemorate Their Day

National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) says this year’s teachers’ day commemorations should be used to reward educators with a reasonable salary increment, upgraded salary scales, timely confirmations, decent accommodation, settling-in allowances and environments conducive to effective teaching.

NAQEZ Executive Director, Dr. Aaron Chansa said as Zambia commemorates Teachers’ Day on 5th October 2024, there is need for Government and teacher unions to move beyond mere symbolism of giving t-shirts and routine speeches but embrace the core of this year’s theme, which calls for deeper respect for the educators’ voices and collaborative reforms which address the real challenges teachers’ face.

Dr. Chansa noted that instead of being recognized and appreciated accordingly, teachers are left to celebrate their annual day in a state of discontent.

“Traditional as they are, uniform shirts, matching and hollow speeches offer little comfort and progress to workers who need real, tangible support.

“NAQEZ believes that, in line with this year’s theme, “Valuing Teacher Voice: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” teachers in Zambia must be heard and respected not just through ceremonial acts, but through actionable reforms,” Dr. Chansa stated.

He also called for the amendment to the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) Act, to ensure that the majority of teachers who contribute to this fund are not undervalued.

“While the 20% partial withdrawal is appreciated, under the current conditions of NAPSA, which conditions fail to offer retired workers lump-sum payments, teachers across the country are left with uncertainty about their poverty-threatening futures.”

“Until the necessary amendments are made to the NAPSA Act, the majority of teachers who contribute to this fund will continue to feel frustrated and undervalued,” Dr. Chansa stated.