The Chronicle
Comment
19th February 2009
The past year was devoted largely to seeking to build consensus on the need for unity of political players so that we could see the country unleash its full potential. Having tied up the loose ends in September last year with the signing of the Global Political Agreement, the focus this year turns to rebuilding the country as all sectors seek to pull in the same direction.
The inclusive Government is now in place and getting down to business to attend to the concerns of the nation, and from their statements it would appear, they know the priority areas.
It is in this spirit that we believe the civil servants, especially teachers have to return to work while negotiations for improved conditions of service for them are allowed to continue.
Civil servants have had a raw deal for a long time now but it would be amiss to insinuate that they are the only ones who are lowly paid since even workers in the private sector are paid paltry salaries.
We believe there is a serious need to overhaul pay structures across the board to recognise the gallant efforts of the thousands of workers that did not desert their homeland but soldiered on for salaries that were not even enough to pay their way to work.
It is important, however, to realise that the money has to come from somewhere and that before we restore productivity, we cannot expect to be paid handsomely since wealth creation has to precede healthy reward.
We implore teachers and other civil servants who have not reported for duty to do so and have faith in the commitments that have been made by the new Government.
The Government on its part has to get our industry working again through prudent policies that will attract investment whose fruit would then cascade to the workers as better pay.
It is also important that the new Government does not give conflicting signals such as saying it does not have money while being seemingly extravagant. The period ahead of us should be a time for belt-tightening for the workers as well as politicians who should be prepared to see their perks cut as they sacrifice for the sake of the nation.
Once that spirit of sacrifice filters through in all sectors we will then be able to take our country forward. True leadership shall be exhibited during these trying times since the true leaders will stay the course and not lose sight of their vision even though its fulfilment might be delayed.
The Minister of Education, Sport, Art and Culture, Senator David Coltart, noted that by continuing with the strike teachers were destroying the future of a whole generation.
“The Government is in a very grave economical crisis and we do not have sufficient resources to give them what they want. We are very much aware of their plight and will try all we can to satisfy their needs. The issue cannot be addressed overnight,†said Sen Coltart.
While the teachers’ concerns are legitimate, we would like to urge them to return to work since their message has been driven home and the authorities are attending to their concerns. If our vision as a nation is to get Zimbabwe flourishing again, teachers have to take their part towards the fulfilment of that vision by executing their calling.