Peneux and Valies had a good talk

Education, Science and Culture Minister Robert Peneux and Wilgo Valies, chairman of the Teachers’ Association (BvL) and the Alliance for Teachers in Suriname (ALS), had a good talk on Friday. Both men indicated that they were willing to work towards finding a solution that would normalize the education process. After the meeting with the union chairman Minister Peneux told the press that he and the union chairman were finally on the same page with regards to several issues. The minister reportedly discussed the financial part of the revaluation program with the government during the weekend. Teachers escorted Valies to the ministry where the meeting was held. “Go Valies. Revaluation Now,” said the teachers. Valies objected to having reporters at the meeting. After the talk that lasted about two and a half hours Valies pointed out that the minister had been given sufficient information and that the conversation had been good. “We have not reached the finish line yet but we have given a clear picture of the problems and if all parties work hard, we will be able to find a solution fast,” said Valies who added that the minister has indicated that he wants to help the government reach an agreement with the teachers’ unions. Valies made it clear that both unions are willing to help reach a solution fast. He did not divulge any details of the conversation because he wanted to inform the union members first.