By Belize Live News Staff: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has issued a strong statement in support of the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) amidst growing concerns over the financial struggles faced by Belizean teachers. The UDP has condemned the People’s United Party (PUP) government for failing to fulfill promises made to teachers in the 2020 General Elections under the “Plan Belize” initiative.
The UDP expressed agreement with the BNTU’s stance that “enough is enough,” highlighting that four years have passed—ample time for the government to address critical issues such as delayed payments, rural hardship allowances, and responsibility allowances. Despite promises of a 20% salary increase, teachers instead faced pay cuts, frozen increments, and in some cases, the revocation of teaching licenses.
The financial strain on teachers has been exacerbated by rising inflation, which has reached unprecedented levels in the last four years. The UDP criticized the government for failing to adjust teacher salaries to match the escalating cost of living. Instead, they argue, the administration has worsened the situation by withholding increments and failing to allocate adequate funding for teacher training and scholarships.
One major grievance is the suspension of study leave with pay, which had been a critical resource for teachers seeking professional development. Compounding this issue, the mandated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours for teachers have increased, forcing educators to shoulder additional financial burdens to attend workshops and secure accredited hours—hours that, the UDP claims, are not being properly recorded or credited.
The UDP also pointed out discrepancies between the glowing economic outlook painted by Prime Minister Briceño and the Governor of the Central Bank and the reality faced by educators. The statement questioned why, despite this optimistic narrative, the government has not been able to deliver even the bare minimum to teachers.
“The United Democratic Party stands with our Belizean teachers in their demand for better,” the statement concluded. “Four years of abuse, disrespect, and neglect is enough.”
As the 2025 elections approach, the UDP is calling on the government to immediately address these issues and fulfill its commitments to Belize’s educators.
