By Hou Akot Hou
Concerned about the plight of teachers in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, National Minister of Education, Awut Deng Achuil vows to address their grievances.
The minister’s Thursday visit to Aweil Town follows reports of unpaid salaries for over six months and salary deduction that threatens education in the region.
“This jeopardizes education and impacts both teachers’ families and the learning environment,” she said.
Following a closed-door meeting with NBGs government and education officials, Minister Awut announced immediate action.
“I’m here to be practical. I’ve set up teams to pay teachers directly at schools,” the minister announced.
She wants to ensure even those who are absent will receive their salaries upon return.
Awut urged teachers against double standards, reminding them of their nation-building role and the importance of patriotism.
Addressing reports of discrepancies in salary payments, the education minister called the practice corrupt and a key reason for her visit.
One of the teachers Dut Garang Atak welcomed the Minister’s initiative but criticized the state government’s slow response to their complaints.
“Minister Awut’s arrival sends a strong message,” he said. “If the payment teams work efficiently, things should improve.”
With grievances seemingly addressed, teachers are expected to resume classes today Monday.