(Last Updated on November 11, 2020 by GERALD NCUBE)
HARARE – The government on Tuesday announced that it has made a 40% upward review for teacher’s salaries with the teachers now set to earn ZWL$ 18 327 which is still by far less than what had been demanded.
Teachers are demanding that their salaries be restored to US$520 or it’s equivalent in local currency.
However, the announced review only takes their salaries to US$180.
Minister of Information, Monica Mutsvangwa revealed the developments during a post-cabinet media brief in Harare yesterday.
“Noting it’s obligation to pay a decent wage, Government has reviewed upwards the salary increase offer to civil servants to 40% which will be awarded to Deputy Directors and below, said Minister Mutsvangwa.
She also added that,” In addition to the salary increase, the teachers will also be awarded a 10% risk allowance. The new basic salary package for the teacher is now Z$18 327, which is above the Poverty Datum Line (PDL).
Since the phased re-opening of schools began in September after a long break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most teachers have not yet reported for duty, declaring themselves incapacitated.
They argue that their salaries have been reduced to nothing due to the inflation which currently stands at 700%. Teachers are also saying the country has re-dollarised with many charging for their goods and services in foreign currency.
