Teachers up in arms with school

Peter Matika, [email protected]

CANA Primary School, a private school in Bulawayo’s Pumula East suburb is locked in a dispute with its teachers over unpaid salaries.

According to the teachers, the school authorities have since last November been paying a portion of their monthly salaries.

The teachers said as a result, they are now failing to meet their basics as the school now owes them substantial amounts in salary arrears.

“We are now failing to provide for our families and the morale among staff members is now very low, thereby impacting negatively on service delivery,” said one of the teachers who refused to be named.
The teachers said there is a need to urgently address the problem before it affects the pupils that are paying their fees.

“It’s not just about the money, but about the respect and acknowledgment of the hard work we put in every day. We love our students, but it’s hard to focus on teaching when you are worried about how to pay the bills,” said one teacher.

The school’s co-ordinator, Mr Themba Ndwalaza, has been accused of victimising staff members when they raise their concerns.

When contacted for comment, Mr Ndwalaza acknowledged that the school was facing financial challenges.
“I am surprised they came to you. They are aware of the procedures and as the co-ordinator, they should come to my office whenever they have grievances. We have been facing financial challenges but something is being done to address the situation,” he said.

Parents said they were shocked to learn that the teachers were not being paid on time. “These teachers are the backbone of our children’s education. If they are not supported, how can we expect them to give their best? We all want our children to pass, but it starts with taking care of the teachers,” said one parent.

Fees at the school are pegged at US$250 per pupil a term and the school has Grades One up to Seven. Cana Primary School is managed by ACT’V Group of Schools. The ACT’V Group also manages Angels Primary, Tshebetshebe Elementary and V Mhlophe High School.