Uncertainty reigns among teachers amidst promises

Venezuelan teachers have just started the school year amid uncertainty about the fulfillment of government promises that imply job improvements, according to the Venezuelan Training for Leadership Union (Fordisi).

“The situation of teachers is unsustainable. Low salaries, lack of resources and workplace harassment have taken us to the limit,” said Gricelda Sánchez, a union leader in the education sector, quoted in a Fordisi press release.

The previous experience of non-compliance with the collective contract since 2018, the lack of a significant salary increase and the persistence of poor working conditions have – according to the statement – undermined teachers’ confidence in the authorities’ statements.

The union formation recognized the government’s promise of improvements in health, housing, credit and other benefits for the teachers’ union. However, in practice “the problems of economic lack and workplace harassment persist through the radical normalization of class schedules.”

Sánchez considered that Venezuelan teachers are trapped at an emotional crossroads, between the hope that government promises will be fulfilled and the harsh reality of a critical labor and economic situation.

A cocktail that compromises the quality of life of teachers

Low salaries have driven educators to look for other sources of income, Fordisi lamented in the letter.

Likewise, the deteriorated income combined with non-compliance with the collective contract, inflation and currency devaluation have drastically reduced the purchasing power of teachers, the union denounced. This cocktail, he added, seriously compromises their quality of life and makes it difficult to meet their basic needs.

“As an educator, I reiterate that Héctor Rodríguez must offer an immediate and forceful response to teachers and the Venezuelan people in salary and contractual terms, including the cessation of workplace harassment to ensure work and school peace,” said Sánchez.

And he added: “It is essential that the government listens to the teachers’ union, meets our demands and adopts urgent measures.”.