24 Mar 2025

Assistant Minister of Higher Education, Mr Justin Hunyepa, emphasised the importance of incentives for teachers as outlined in the Revised National Policy on Education Package 12 (III).

The assistant minister’s remarks came during a tour of Pelaelo Junior Secondary School, where he expressed the government's commitment to improving teacher welfare and working conditions.

Mr Hunyepa underscored the introduction of parallel progression as a promising development in the education sector. However, he acknowledged concerns raised by school heads and directors regarding the feasibility of the progression model, particularly how teachers could benefit while remaining in the classroom.

Reassuring educators, Mr Hunyepa announced that the Fan Shape Salary Structure is set to be implemented. He noted that the Director of Public Service Management had presented the new structure to the Cabinet and it is slated for discussion in Parliament. 

“It is long overdue. It has been discussed, and a notice was issued regarding its pending approval,” he stated, adding that the changes will include arrears dating back to 2023.

During the briefing, Pelaelo JSS school head, Mr Fanta Mpha, shared that the school had achieved commendable academic performance over the past two years, leading the sub-region with a pass rate of 50.5 per cent. 

Mr Mpha highlighted the school's aspirations to maintain this high standard despite facing significant challenges, including the state of their infrastructure.

“We have two classes occupying the hall, and that is an unsuitable situation and not conducive for learning,” he said. The school head noted that the much-needed cyclic maintenance, scheduled for the 2021/22 fiscal year, was postponed due to budget constraints. 

He reported ongoing issues with limited office space and furniture, where department heads often share offices as they handle confidential information.

Additionally, concerns were raised about structural deficiencies, including termite infestations and recent sightings of bats. The school’s roof has also shown leakages following heavy rainfall, compounding the situation as the establishment is situated on a flood plain.

Mr Mpha further addressed student challenges, particularly transportation. Many students walk up to seven kilometers to and from school, arriving as early as 4am, regardless of weather conditions, which has led to fatigue and, subsequently, an increase in drop-out rates. 

“When we start classes, some of them would be tired from waking up early and walking a long distance to school,” he said, calling for urgent solutions to enhance student retention and well-being. ENDS