Teachers in Juba are calling for better salaries, safer working conditions and greater recognition of their role in strengthening the education system as the country marks World Teachers’ Day.
World Teachers’ Day is observed every year on Oct. 5 to recognize the work of educators and their contribution to education. The day was established through the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.
Speaking to Eye Radio, Namadi Aisha, former head teacher of Exodus International Academy, said teachers should be recognized and supported to encourage them to do their best in preparing children for the future.
“What I can say is that teachers are like symbolic centres and should be respected and valued in society. When we talk about professionalism, teachers should have autonomy, support and a voice in policymaking so that we can feel respected as professionals,” Aisha said.
Aisha said improving teachers’ financial well-being would boost their morale, happiness and sense of security at work.
She also called on the government to review teachers’ salaries and other employment conditions to ensure educators are properly valued for their work.
“On salaries, I would ask the government to look into this so that every teacher feels happy, valued and safe in his or her work. I am happy to be recognized on this day, and I also encourage all teachers to do their best to make sure these children are equipped,” she added.
Meanwhile, Samuel Majok Dot, the deputy head teacher of Smooth Star Academy Secondary School, says World Teachers’ Day remains largely undervalued in South Sudan.
He said the annual observance should give teachers an opportunity to reflect on their professional journey, achievements and contribution to the education sector.
“I believe World Teachers’ Day, particularly here in South Sudan, is not given enough attention. As teachers, we feel it should be an important day in the education sector. It should give teachers time to reflect on their professional journey, their achievements and their contribution to education,” Majok said.
Majok added that teachers expect the government to take greater steps to recognize the day and include it in the national education agenda.
“We also feel that the government should give the day greater attention and make it part of the national education agenda. There is no education system without teachers,” he said.
The teachers’ concerns come as countries around the world mark World Teachers’ Day, which recognizes the role of educators in shaping future generations.
Teachers in South Sudan say recognition should go beyond celebrations and include practical measures to improve their livelihoods and working conditions.
