STU urges stronger protection for teachers

KUCHING: The Sarawak Teachers’ Union (STU) has called on the Ministry of Education (MOE) to strengthen protection for teachers, saying student safety and teacher protection must be safeguarded together.

STU president Kullin Djayang said the union hoped stronger protection would help prevent anxiety and fear among teachers in their efforts to educate students.

“We do not want teachers to merely go through the motions in their efforts to educate students. Any allegations of negligence must be examined through a fair legal process.

“Teachers should not be left to face risks, pressure and the possibility of legal action without proper defence,” he said in a statement today (Oct 18) alluding to a lawsuit recently filed by the family of a student who died at a secondary school against educators.

The union also called on all teachers serving in Sarawak, regardless of their origins or backgrounds, to join STU, which fights for the rights and welfare of educators in the state.

“By joining STU, members can benefit from protection for teachers’ welfare and rights when facing professional issues.

“This includes creating a safe school environment for both teachers and students,” he said.

A strong union, he added, would also work towards creating a safe school environment for both teachers and students by establishing a clear division of responsibilities among teachers, school administrators, parents and the authorities.

“In addition, cooperation within the union will uphold the professionalism of teachers so that we can focus on our main duty, which is educating the next generation,” he added.