Almost a week after the three-year agreement between the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teachers’ Union, the Education Ministry today said teachers will reap significant benefits under the new agreement.

In a statement today, the Education Ministry noted that the agreement reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the nation’s educators are supported and rewarded for their contributions towards the education of children and the nation’s overall development.

The Ministry said the 10% salary increase for this year, the 8% for next year and 9% for 2026 represent significant increases.

The statement noted that teachers in remote areas will benefit greatly from the increased Remote Area Incentive (RAI), explaining that in November 2023, the Remote Area allowance stood at $9,000. It was increased to $20,000 in December last year, and under the new agreement, it has been further increased to $23,000.

While outlining the already announced benefits, the Ministry noted that a crucial benefit will be given to teachers under the new agreement is station allowance.

The station allowance, which compensates teachers for working in particular locations, has been increased to $5,000 for all eligible categories.

The increase varies based on the category, ranging from 11% for Headmasters (A) to 108% for other teachers in category A.

Similarly, the hardlying allowance has been standardized at $5,000, with the increase ranging from 19% to 67% depending on the category.

The Ministry said the government has also agreed to increase duty-free concessions, from 100 to 150 annually.

Furthermore, teachers holding a substantive appointment as a Senior Master/Mistress or above within three years of retirement, who have not previously benefited from a concession, are now entitled to a duty-free concession for motorcars up to 1500cc. Teachers in hinterland and riverine areas are also eligible for concessions on outboard engines and ATVs.

“This agreement represents a comprehensive package designed to enhance the welfare of our teachers and to recognize their pivotal role in shaping the future of our country. The Ministry of Education remains committed to continuous dialogue and partnership with the teaching fraternity to ensure sustained progress and development in the education sector,” the Education Ministry said.

Additionally, the Ministry said it has also doubled the number of annual scholarships for teachers from 50 to 100.

Some Executives of the Guyana Teachers Union are still holding out that the agreement is not sufficient, since not all teachers will benefit from many of the concessions.

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