By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has sounded the alarm over delayed salary payments for over 130 teachers across the country. In a press release issued earlier today, the BNTU expressed frustration over the non-payment of September salaries, which were expected to be deposited by late last week.
According to the BNTU, this has been an ongoing issue, with some teachers going unpaid for as long as four to five months. The Union, having received multiple complaints from teachers, was quick to contact branch executives to verify the extent of the issue. The findings revealed a widespread delay affecting teachers across the education system.
“This is an all too familiar saga that plays out every year,” stated the Union, highlighting how teachers have been disenfranchised by the repeated salary delays. Among those affected are teachers who had previously reported issues to the Ministry of Education, including Yolanda Gongora, Chief Education Officer, and her team, who have been aware of these challenges since July.
The BNTU also pointed out that efforts to reach top Ministry of Education officials have been hindered by the fact that many are currently out of the country on official duty leave. However, Acting Prime Minister Cordel Hyde has stepped in to address the matter, assuring the Union that immediate action will be taken to resolve the salary delays, with payments expected by Friday.
While the BNTU expressed disappointment that teachers are once again facing this issue, they are committed to advocating for prompt resolution. The Union called on its members to remain patient, assuring them that their efforts will continue until all salaries are paid.
The Union’s message was clear: teachers’ financial stability is crucial to maintaining the quality of education in Belize, and delays in salary payments have a direct impact on their ability to perform their duties effectively.
