Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office for Labour, Youth, Employment, and People with Disabilities, Patrobas Katambi, addressing teachers from the CWT (Tanzania Teachers' Union) Photo: Shinyanga Press Club.
By Adonis Byemelwa
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office for Labour, Youth, Employment, and People with Disabilities, Patrobas Katambi, has commended teachers in Tanzania for their pivotal role in shaping the nation's youth through education and instilling strong moral values.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the Women Teachers' Union (CWT) Congress held in Shinyanga on Friday, September 21, 2024, Katambi urged all regional directors across the country to address teachers' concerns to ensure they continue teaching in a peaceful environment. The congress brought CWT members from Geita, Mwanza, Tabora, Simiyu, and Shinyanga regions together.
“Due to teachers' crucial role, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed all directors to collaborate in solving teachers' challenges. We should be prepared to step aside if we fail to address these issues. Teachers should focus on their profession, not side jobs like selling snacks, as their primary duty is to ensure students succeed,” said Katambi.
He acknowledged the significant sacrifices teachers make in nurturing children and reminded leaders that their success is owed to the efforts of dedicated teachers. He also called on parents to assist teachers in instilling good morals in children, emphasizing that moral decay in society cannot solely be blamed on educators.
Katambi further highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to resolve teachers’ grievances, particularly those concerning delayed promotions. He noted that in the 2023/2024 fiscal year, 49,540 teachers were promoted, with 126,353 more expected to be promoted in 2024/2025. Additionally, 4,570 teachers received grade changes in the previous year, with 20,357 expected to benefit in the coming year.
"President Samia continues to prioritize teachers' welfare because she values their contribution to the nation. This year, you'll witness positive changes in teachers' pay, thanks to her commitment," Katambi added, calling on the nation to continue supporting President Samia's leadership.
The Chairperson of the Shinyanga Teachers' Union, Mathias John Balele, also expressed gratitude to the president for promoting numerous teachers, noting that these promotions have contributed to salary increments.
"The main purpose of this congress is to share knowledge and insights, especially regarding the union's activities, while also reflecting on the vital role mothers play in child-rearing. We're thankful to the president for the strides made in improving teachers’ ranks," Balele said.
Reah Ulaya, President of the CWT, also praised President Samia for her commitment to improving teachers' welfare. She pledged the union’s continued dedication to working with the government to ensure the ongoing professional growth of teachers.
“Please convey our gratitude to President Samia. Tell her that we, the teachers of Tanzania, stand firmly by her side and she will see the results of our efforts in the coming year,” said Ulaya.