Teachers suspend strike after reaching agreement with government

Following a meeting between the government and teacher unions, the union responsible for Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has called off its ongoing strike. The FWSC's Chief Executive, Dr. George Smith-Graham, revealed that both sides have reached a consensus and signed the agreed-upon modalities. This agreement addresses several outstanding concerns, including promotions, salary adjustments, and allowances for teachers.

Dr. Smith-Graham informed that 52,000 promoted teachers are set to receive their salaries, along with the necessary adjustments, on October 16, 2026. The remaining promoted teachers are expected to receive their revised salaries by the end of October 2026. Moreover, the new collective agreement will come into effect from January 2027, ensuring that payments under the agreement will commence from that date.

Although the specific details of the allowances have not been disclosed, the suspension of the strike marks a positive step toward resolving the disputes that prompted the industrial action. The agreed-upon modalities will serve as a guide for the implementation of the outstanding payments and other conditions reached by the government and the teacher unions.