**Teacher Unions Advocate for Enhanced Public Education on World Teachers’ Day**
In a joint statement released on Friday, Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teacher unions emphasized the urgent need to secure the right of all children to quality education. The unions called for increased investment in public education, highlighting the importance of proper staffing, adequate resources, fair salaries, and a safe learning environment. This statement coincided with the observance of World Teachers’ Day and the 60th anniversary of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and UNESCO recommendation on the status of teachers.
The unions involved in this initiative include Poed, Oelmek, and Oltek from the Greek Cypriot side, as well as Ktos, Ktoeos, and Dau-Sen from the Turkish Cypriot community. Their collective message underscored the ongoing relevance of the ILO and UNESCO recommendation, which advocates for essential components such as proper training standards, negotiated salaries, job security, maternity protection, academic freedom, and active participation in educational policy.
Despite the passage of six decades since the recommendation was made, the unions expressed concern that its fundamental principles have not been fully realized. They noted that teachers today are tasked with supporting children and young people in navigating complex issues such as social inequality, conflict, climate change, rapid technological advancements, and the challenges posed to democracy. The unions stressed that these responsibilities cannot rest solely on the shoulders of teachers; rather, they require comprehensive policies and social commitments that bolster public education.
The statement also highlighted the gender dynamics within the teaching profession, noting that there are more women than men in education both in Cyprus and globally. However, the unions pointed out that many female educators continue to face discrimination, violence, and harassment, along with barriers to accessing leadership positions. This disparity raises concerns about equity and the representation of women in educational leadership roles.
The unions called for a collaborative effort to build a better future for Cyprus, rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. They emphasized the importance of instilling values of peace, democracy, and justice within schools, aiming to equip today’s youth to contribute to a more equitable and harmonious society.
As World Teachers’ Day serves as a reminder of the critical role educators play in shaping the future, the unions’ call for enhanced public education reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that all children have access to quality learning experiences. Their joint statement serves as both a celebration of the teaching profession and a call to action for policymakers and society to invest in the educational framework that supports the development of future generations.