Teachers, Ministry Strike Deal Ahead of Vote: Education Reform Talks Back on Track

Just before the Belize National Teachers Union cast their votes on the government’s latest salary proposal, there was a key meeting behind closed doors. The B.N.T.U. executive sat down with Education Minister Oscar Requena, and it wasn’t just talk. The two sides reached an agreement to form a national working group aimed at tackling some long-standing issues in the education system. We’re talking about everything from allowances for Heads of Departments, to updating teacher licensing requirements, and even hiring more school counselors. The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to compensating teachers for extra hours and processing long-overdue increments and allowances. And, in a move that’s getting some applause, they’re sticking with their promise to offer tuition scholarships for in-service teachers in high-priority areas. It’s a sign that dialogue is back on the table and both sides say they’re ready to work together to improve education in Belize. A Joint Stakeholders Meeting is already being proposed for the end of July.