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Statement on collective job action to press for better conditions of service
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ)
January 31, 2007

The National Executive Committee (N.E.C) of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe has been mandated by teachers in Zimbabwe to organize and call for an industrial action to press for better salaries and working conditions. The decision is a culmination of consultative meetings with members and non-members.

The role of teachers during the industrial action

• Teachers must remain focused on the struggle. We must never allow petty differences between teachers’ organizations to take precedence at a time when we need each other most. Never buy into the agenda of political parties.
• We need to remain steadfast even in adversity. Threats and intimidation are imminent and will certainly come from school heads, DEOs, PEDs, state security agencies, non-statutory paramilitary groups, public service inspectors and politicians. We instruct you to ignore such threats and get in touch with the Union. Your family needs money, food and care. You cannot take threats and fear to your children and spouse.

The role of PTUZ in the industrial action

• This industrial action is for all teachers, PTUZ members and non-members alike. PTUZ does not seek to monopolize the teachers’ struggle. We have informed other Unions in the Education sector of this position.
• The Union will communicate to you through its structures.
• PTUZ will direct the industrial action on daily basis.
• PTUZ will offer legal protection to victimized teachers.

The methodology of the collective job action
From 31^st January, 2007 to 2 February, 2007, teachers are directed to embark on a go-slow while we extend an olive branch to the government to engage us. This will come after the expiry of the 14 day notice given to the PSC. The notice expires on 30^th January, 2007.

If Government snubs our magnanimous gesture a full throttle strike shall commence on 5^th February, 2007. Teachers are hereby directed to sit in the staff-rooms. This will allow for self monitoring and easier dissemination of information. It will also help expose enemies and sell –outs of the struggle.

Do not stay-away. We must emphasize that this collective action will not end until our demands are met.

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