Guyanese Teachers Unimpressed with President Ali’s Three-Card Trick on Salary Adjustments
+ Adam’s Notebook:- In a recent move that echoed the deceptive nature of a three-card trick, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali announced salary adjustments for Guyanese teachers during the CG Super 50 tournament. The announcement, however, left many educators feeling played, as the reality of the adjustments fell short of expectations.
President Irfaan Ali
President Ali’s Trickery
President Ali, akin to a skilled illusionist, presented a seemingly generous offer to teachers, particularly those holding advanced degrees. The promise included monthly allowances ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, in addition to their existing salaries and benefits.
However, it was later revealed that these adjustments were merely a reshuffling of existing allowances, not the substantial increase the Guyana Teachers’ Union had been negotiating for. The three-card trick, in this case, involved masking a $15,000 increase as a $30,000 gain, further complicated by the fact that the additional funds would be taxed as part of the salary.
Selective Privileges and Propaganda Blitz
The impact of the salary adjustments disproportionately affects a mere 4,000 out of the 13,000 teachers in the system. The remaining teachers receive a one-off $25,000 payout, a figure comparable to what old age pensioners are entitled to.
Ministry of Education Guyana
Critics argue that the government’s approach lacks transparency, with special privileges granted to certain teachers, particularly those seconded to the Education Ministry. These individuals, including Heads of Department and Education Officers, have been receiving substantial allowances ranging from $100,000 to $30,000 per month.
Unfavourable Comparisons and Accusations of Disrespect
The international perspective on salary adjustments further highlights the discontent. Teachers in Barbados and Trinidad, with lower living costs, earn an average of US$2,000 per month. Far surpassing the proposed adjustments in Guyana. Critics accuse the government of disrespecting the teaching profession, noting that Ministers and Parliamentarians did not receive similarly modest increases.
Realities of Oil Wealth
Despite Guyana’s considerable oil wealth, the disparity in living standards remains a cause for concern. Trinidad, with less oil revenue and a larger population, has managed to implement more impactful measures for its citizens. The dissatisfaction among Guyanese teachers and the wider society raises questions about the government’s commitment to addressing poverty with its substantial oil resources.
As President Ali promises to revisit the pay situation for the rest of the teaching staff, many remain skeptical. Given the disillusionment caused by the recent three-card trick played on Guyanese teachers.
