The following opinion submitted by a teacher touches a story we have been tracking for a while. Some participating teachers have reported not being paid since February.
We counting to track this story while publishing the views of those impacted.
The views expressed herein are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of One News SVG.
The writer did not request anonymity, but a name was not placed at the end of the email, hence no name is mentioned here.
I write as a Mathematics teacher who dedicated time and professional effort to the Mathematics Support Programme conducted during the summer months of July to August in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This programme was intended to assist students academically and to strengthen foundational mathematical skills. I carried out my responsibilities fully and in good faith.
However, to date no payment has been received for the work completed during this period. As a result, I now find myself in a difficult financial position, unable to even participate in the VAT Free Shopping Day on December 19th, an initiative meant to bring relief to working citizens during the holiday season, “oh what a whopper!”.
This letter is not intended to be political in nature. Rather, it seeks to highlight the serious inadequacies in administration and oversight among the personnel entrusted with ensuring the smooth running of national programmes. When educators give their time, skills, and commitment to support students and the wider education system, timely compensation should not be optional it is essential.
The lack of payment not only affects teachers financially but also undermines morale and discourages participation in future educational initiatives. Programmes such as these cannot succeed without proper planning, accountability, and follow through.
It is my hope that the new Government will closely examine these support programmes, particularly the systems in place for payment and accountability, and take immediate steps to address the outstanding compensation owed to those who served. Educators should not have to struggle or be left in uncertainty after fulfilling their professional duties.
I trust that this matter will be given the serious attention it deserves, in the interest of fairness, transparency, and the continued development of our nation’s education system.
END
One News SVG 