Editor,

As an educationalist, I applaud the Government’s move to improve the living standards of civil servants, especially teachers. The news about a 10 percent salary increment for all teachers, which will eventually increase to 50 percent over the next six years, is a welcome New Year’s present.

The issue of meager salaries for teachers continues to dog countries, the world over, but it is heartening to know that the Government of Rwanda is working hard to improve teachers’ welfare despite the limited resources.

Much as the increment is welcome, it is not an end in itself.

Teachers should continue to take advantage of the existing special loan schemes, such as Umwalimu Sacco, if they are to substantially improve their social welfare. Parents should continue to play an active role in the education of their children through parent-teacher committees. It is only through these concerted efforts that the plight of teachers will be addressed.

On the other hand, teachers need to work harder and repay the goodwill that the government has expressed. This, along other initiatives, should ultimately translate into improved education quality.

Emmanuel Haliri Jnr,
Kigali