Education Minister Owen Nxumalo might have his own political weaknesses but, he has on numerous occasions, demonstrated willingness to engage with the Swaziland National Association of Teachers(SNAT) in an effort to address teacher’s grievances.
The Minister came out of his air-conditioned Office on Monday and addressed protesting teachers in a very polite manner, he even allowed ordinary teachers who were part of the protest to ask him questions and he responded publicly.
Personally,I may have some reservations about the conduct of the Education Minister but, let me applaud him for humbling himself and face the challenges under his Portfolio.
The Education Minister demonstrated respect for the protesting teachers, you earn respect by demonstrating same to others.
Even though I am fully aware that, the political agenda to persecute SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini was orchestrated long before the appointment of Owen Nxumalo as the Minister of Education, the willingness to engage gives us hope that, the matter will eventually be resolved.
But Lot Vilakati subsequently told the protesters that, they were threatened inside the meeting.
Well, tension might rise in such ‘private’
meetings but at the end, SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini must be reinstated and, paid all his outstanding salaries as per the order of the court.
The mere fact that, the Education Minister opened doors, demonstrating willingness to engage, is a positive step, Lot Vilakati is strong enough to handle all threats directed to him and the union and that’s why he was unapologetic when updating the members with regards to the outcomes of their private engagements with the Education Minister.
But in conclusion, let me remind the Education Minister that, the situation in schools and the persecution of teachers is of public concern in this country, we need practical solutions as a matter of urgency to address the education crisis.
Education Minister Owen Nxumalo.