Union praises Bird’s efforts

THE Papua New Guinea Teachers’ Association (PNGTA) has commended East Sepik Governor Allan Bird for supporting teachers in
the province by sorting out their leave entitlements and appointments.
“We are grateful to Governor Bird for ordering an investigation into leave fare and appointment issues,” PNGTA general-secretary Ugwailubu Mowana said.
“The headquarters has noticed leave fare issues have been going on and we can’t continue to work when the chairman of the provincial education board can’t take these seriously.”
Mowana said East Sepik used to be among the top and well-organised provinces in terms of organising teachers’ leave fares and appointments.
He also expressed dismay at the way appointments were done resulting in over 1000 teachers missing out on postings this year.
“East Sepik teachers have been denied promotion and advancement,” he said.
“The association is also thankful to the governor for his understanding in assisting our teachers by ordering an investigation.”
Bird has ordered an investigation into the education division following a petition by teachers last month.
“I ordered the investigation and I understand that there are some suspensions and terminations,” Bird said.
“I don’t have the details because that responsibility lies with the acting provincial administrator to take disciplinary actions.”