A teachers’ strike in Côte d’Ivoire appears to be easing, following visits by National Education Minister Mariatou Kone and Minister of State, Minister of Civil Service, Anne Desiree Ouloto, to various schools in the Abidjan District on Monday.
The ministers’ primary goal was to assess the effectiveness of classes, and they expressed their appreciation for the teachers who reported for duty despite renewed strike calls within the education sector.
The ministerial tour included stops at the Lycee Classique d’Abidjan, the College Moderne de Cocody, and the Cite des Arts school complex, where classes were observed to be in session with students actively learning and participating in activities. Similar scenes were reported in several schools across the country.
Following the visits, the ministers expressed their satisfaction. Minister Kone commended the teachers of Côte d’Ivoire for their “civic spirit” and “commitment to the right to education,” noting that classes were open and being attended. She also stated that the teachers who came to work did so with a desire for dialogue and negotiation, expressing delight that they understood the government’s message.
Addressing the striking teachers, Minister Kone appealed to the “few teachers who have chosen the path of radicalization,” stating that “nothing is achieved, and nothing can be achieved, through pressure, radicalization, or violence.” She urged them to trust the government’s ongoing process.
Minister Ouloto highlighted the progress made for civil servants under President Alassane Ouattara’s leadership, achieved without resorting to strikes. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued dialogue within both the Ministry of National Education and the civil service, assuring that the government intends to consider all civil servants in Côte d’Ivoire. She emphasized the need for reflection and collaboration, stating that the government will respond when possible and necessary.
In a final message to teachers who have not returned to classrooms, Minister Kone expressed her hope to avoid taking extreme measures when classes resume.
AP/Sf/fss/abj/APA