Minister of Education Embraces “Very Important Duty of Teachers”

New Education Minister Oscar Requena says he fully recognizes the vital role teachers play in building the nation. His comments come as educators push for an eight-and-a-half percent salary adjustment. So far, Cabinet has only approved a three percent raise, set to take effect in October 2025. While the Belize National Teachers Union has yet to respond formally, Requena says he’s committed to open, good-faith dialogue in hopes of reaching a fair agreement.

 

Oscar Requena, Minister of Education

“On the matter of teachers, I want to say and reiterate that this ministry of education and our government fully supports, respects and appreciates and values the great work of our teachers across this country. We know that our teachers are important partners in development and education. It is only through education that we can truly develop this nation. That is why we value our teachers. I want to say I support the presentation made by our deputy prime ministers in terms of the proposals made to our teachers and public servants. Rest assured that we understand the very important duty of our teachers and public servants and we will continue to endeavor to work with our teachers and public servants in good faith, so that together we can arrive at some meaningful consensus on how we can move forward, understanding that as a government we have a responsibility to the good for the wider nation. But we also have responsibility to them and the great work they do.”