By Panashe Kaseke
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) will be advocating for a living wage in American dollars for teachers and accessible education at their tree planting campaign, scheduled to commence on December 1 in Bulawayo.
The tree planting campaign will be running under the theme “Tree is life so is education,” with the aim to underscore the vital importance of trees in Zimbabwe’s ecosystem.
In a statement released by the ARTUZ, the union advocates for the compensation of teachers in US dollars and the issue of government-sponsored education.
“Aligned with our theme, we are of the view that, just as trees are vital to sustaining life, education plays and equally essential role in nurturing and empowering individuals. Hence, attach the importance to the challenges faced by teachers in Zimbabwe as they tirelessly strive to provide education, particularly in terms of fair wages, and we persistently advocate for just compensation in US dollars as part of our ongoing commitment to teachers’ rights.
“Currently, poverty remains a significant barrier to education, resulting in a high number of school dropouts. We are demanding that the government fulfill it’s constitutional obligation and pay fees for all learners, we seek to alleviate the plight faced by vulnerable students and ensure that every child has access to quality education.”
In the statement, ARTUZ acknowledged the urgent need to address environmental concerns and combat climate change.
“Our tree planting serves as a tangible action towards the goals of encouraging community participation in ensuring a more sustainable future and protection of our environment.”
“In addition to tree planting, ARTUZ is committed to promoting environmental cleanliness. During the tree planting event, we will also organize a little cleanup along Bulawayo-Harare highway. This effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of keeping our surroundings clean, which directly contributes to a healthier and more liveable environment for all.”
ARTUZ, as part of its commitment to this cause, on 7 December 2023, will culminate the tree planting campaign by planting their final tree at the office of the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mthuli Ncube. This symbolic gesture serves to remind the government of its responsibility to prioritize environmental sustainability, education, and fair wages for teachers.
ARTUZ’s advocacy efforts highlight the critical role of education and environmental protection in Zimbabwe’s development. By calling for fair wages for teachers, government-sponsored education, and sustainable environmental practices, ARTUZ is contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future for all Zimbabweans.
