San Pedro Teachers and students march in support of the BNTU

Several teachers from San Pedro High School (SPHS) along with senior students and other supporters started what they called a 'Public Awareness Campaign,' in support of the countrywide strike lead by the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). The activities included a march through the main streets of San Pedro Town, followed by visits to different businesses by members of the protesting group. They expect to garner more support in their campaign against the government which demands better governance, transparency and the implementation of the teachers' long awaited salary adjustment.san-pedro-teachers-bntu-protest-march-3The group convened on Tuesday, October 11th at the Central Park and shortly after 10AM, began their peaceful road march. As the group walked up Barrier Reef Drive and onto Pescador Drive, they could be heard loudly chanting "Palacio is our leader, we shall not be removed!"

Speaking to The San Pedro Sun about the campaign on the island was SPHS teacher and Staff Representative for the BNTU, Areli Reyes. She indicated that the initiative is not just to join the movement that is taking place countrywide, but to educate the local island population on how important the issue is. "We want the residents on the island to be aware of the situation and have a better understanding.

According to Reyes, at this point, there is no specific date when classes will be resumed. She stated that they are following the BNTU's advice to take the issue one day at a time. "At the end of the day, the Union meets and then decides what is the next step for the following day," said Reyes.

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