Optimism as govt, teachers seek solutions 

“We are always reasonable and we hope reasonable requests will be met,” he told reporters at noon during a lunch break.

Attorney for the GTU Darren Wade explained that during the morning session, the Union made its proposal and will return in the afternoon for the state to make its counter proposal.

He refused to provide details on the proposal put forward by the GTU during the first session of mediation.

“Let us give the government attorney an opportunity to speak with those in authority.

“When return this afternoon… I am very optimistic… I know Mr Ramdhani has the capacity to speak to those in authority to come to a resolution,” Wade said.

Ramdhani regarded the first session as “fruitful.”

“It is good the union is ready now to engage the government again and I hope official talks can resume.

“We come back at two to have more discussion… the mediators are doing a good job so far,” he added.

Ramdhani could not say when mediation will end but hopes it will be soon so that teachers can return to the classrooms.

“The government’s main priority is to get teachers back in school.

“Let the mediation process take its course when that has come to an end we will speak to all matters,” Ramdhani added.

In a statement Thursday night, the government said the last of engagements between the Ministry of Education and Guyana Teachers’ Union took place on 31st January 2024.

“That meeting was cordial, courteous and constructive,” the government stated, noting that at least five salary-related issues that were on the agenda were addressed.

“The meeting was adjourned to 21st February 2024 for the parties to continue to engage on those and other issues. At the end of the meeting, there was no evidence whatsoever of any rancour, discord or disagreement between the parties.

“As a result, the Government was understandably shocked when the Union, a few days after, announced its intention to resort to strike action.

The Government wishes to emphasise that at all times, it was and remains, ready and prepared to resume those engagements.”