Education standards in Malawi will continue to dwindle if government does not address teacher’s grievances.

The fears were expressed by the Teachers Union of Malawi as they join the global community in commemorating World Teachers Day which falls on 5 October every year.

In an interview with YONECO FM online the Secretary General for TUM Charles Kumchenga said teachers face a lot of challenges in the course of their work citing low salaries, delayed deployment and delayed payment of arrears.

“This profession has many challenges compared to other professions.

“The welfare of teachers is not prioritized yet they are key in molding future leaders,” he said.

Kumchenga said it is not surprising to see youth shun from this profession because of the many challenges stated.

Teachers also have to attend to over 100 students in primary school which is against the standard of 1 to 60.

On a positive note the TUM SG commended government for promoting over 20 thousand teachers earlier this year.

The theme for this year is “Young teachers the future of the profession”.