Dear Editor,
This year the Guyana Teachers’ Union will hold its biennial elections. It is an opportunity pregnant with the possibilities of charting a new course that places decision-making back in the hands of the general membership, ie, the teacher in the classroom. Towards this end the branch leaders, as the designated officers on the ground, should be empowered to play a more pivotal role. Strategically placed they have a direct relationship with the teachers and are in a better position to channel the teachers’ concerns to the central executive and provide feedback from the central executive to the teachers. In fact their intermediary position serves as a win-win for all.
Since the central executive is the body responsible for the reporting input from the branch leaders on the concerns of their constituents, it can aid in the development of strategy and direction. In effect the challenges and well-being of the teacher and the union can best be served in a collaborative relationship that comes through direct understanding and feedback from the teachers in the classrooms, who are the ones most affected by the daily hazards and benefits of the profession and whose interests the union is there to protect.
In a profession and environment driven by information, empowering the membership becomes crucial to their performance and to that of the union. An informed membership works for the development of the union, respect for the profession and delivery of education. Getting this done requires a knowledge base that can be accessed and retrieved as needs be. Towards this end it becomes necessary to establish a communications system to disseminate information to the membership in a reliable and consistent manner.
Teaching is a noble profession and it continues to attract quality young professionals, which is very encouraging. Efforts should therefore be made to embrace them, tap into their energies, enthusiasm and fresh outlook. For continuity and longevity it becomes necessary to have a cadre of young leaders serving alongside the experienced ones. The fusion of perspectives is very rewarding. It works in the schools and can work in the union.
The Guyana Teachers’ Union is a formidable union with a proud history. For more than 100 years its membership has played a critical role in moulding the nation and contributing to the development of society. This has been no easy feat, and one which has been met with many challenges and triumphs. That the union has come this far is a testimony to the selfless involvement of many, some of whom are Jean Persico and Basil Blair. It is to their commitment this union has remained steadfast to its founding principles.
As we go forward let’s not forget that our destiny is in our hands. We can mould it. And in so doing let’s remember that responsibility, integrity, accountability, transparency, commitment and hard work are our bulwark. They are attributes to be protected, nurtured and embraced.
Yours faithfully,
Milne Seymour
