IOL teachers join ALS

Teachers from the Advanced Teachers’ Training Institute (IOL) who were members of the Teachers’ Association (BvL) on Wednesday decided to switch unions. The teachers have reportedly joined the Alliance of Teachers in Suriname (ALS) in response to statements made by Education, Science and Culture Minister Lilian Ferrier in parliament on Tuesday. Minister Ferrier on Tuesday told lawmakers that the BvL was wrongfully interfering in the IOL matter. She also explained that the statutes of the BvL do not mention that the union represents teachers from the IOL. But the statutes of the Alliance of Teachers in Suriname (ALS) indicate that the union is also allowed to represent teachers of the IOL. Wilgo Valies, chairman of both unions, pointed out that the minister always chooses the path of confrontation. “ALS/BvL will not thwart the transformation of the IOL to the state university. But the transformation process must take place in consultation with all parties,” said Valies who added that the minister works like a dictator by stating that she determines the policy. “Since she came into office she has opted for confrontation. The minister categorically refuses to talk to the union. She has repeatedly criticized teachers,” said Valies who added that throughout the years the BvL has always represented teachers from the IOL. The ultimatum of the BvL reportedly expires on Friday. If the minister does not invite the union to a meeting to discuss the transformation of the IOL and the problems within the education sector, other measures will be taken. Valies did not divulge the strategy of the union.