Panama’s Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) has been engaged in a series of disciplinary proceedings against teachers who participated in a strike and have not returned to their classrooms, a situation that began to unfold in . The actions taken by MEDUCA reflect a commitment to prioritizing the education system and student well-being, according to Education Minister Lucy Molinar.
Disciplinary Actions and Return to Classes
The disciplinary proceedings were initiated against teachers who continued “political activities” during the strike and did not resume their duties. Minister Molinar emphasized the need to refocus the education system on its core mission: serving students and fostering their comprehensive education. She stated, “We are living through crucial times for the future of the country’s education system,” and that a decade of “political adventures” had distracted from the primary goal of student development.
MEDUCA celebrated the return of thousands of teachers to the classroom and offered support to principals needing committed staff. “Everyone who has returned is teaching, and anyone who wants to return will be welcomed with open arms,” Molinar stated. However, this welcoming stance is coupled with the enforcement of disciplinary measures for those who persist in strike-related activities. The Ministry maintains that establishing a precedent for teacher commitment to education is vital.
The Context of the Strike and Initial Sanctions
The dispute leading to the strike centered around a controversial agreement between MEDUCA and teacher unions. While the agreement was celebrated by some government officials, it sparked significant discontent among many educators.
As of , approximately 294 teachers had been removed from their classrooms by order of MEDUCA for their participation in an 80-day strike against the contested Law 462 of the Caja de Seguro Social (CSS). Four school directors were also removed, according to reports from teacher associations. The sanctions included suspension from their positions and loss of salary.
Economic Hardship and Lack of Transparency
The suspension of teachers has resulted in significant economic hardship for those affected. One teacher, identified only as “Antonio” to protect his identity, reported being without income for over five weeks after being notified of the disciplinary action. He described the notification as a “providencia” – a directive that, according to the teachers, does not allow for reconsideration or appeal, despite legal avenues for such challenges.
A key concern raised by teachers is the lack of transparency surrounding the replacement of those suspended. While MEDUCA has indicated that temporary replacements are being appointed, the Ministry has not publicly disclosed who is filling the positions or the total number of teachers who have been substituted. This lack of information has added to the uncertainty and anxiety among those facing disciplinary proceedings.
Investigations and Salary Withholdings
MEDUCA confirmed the initiation of administrative investigations against teachers still on strike, following public complaints made by educators on social media. Minister Molinar stated that the investigations are focused on those who have continued to engage in “political activity.” The Ministry has also ruled out the payment of salaries for the period during which teachers were on strike, deeming the strike illegal.
The notifications issued by MEDUCA include provisional suspensions of both position and salary while the investigations are underway. This process facilitates the temporary appointment of new educators to fill the vacated positions. Despite the firm stance, Minister Molinar reiterated that teachers who wish to return to their classrooms will be welcomed, emphasizing that the priority is the student. “The education system must serve education, not other interests,” she concluded.
Current Status and Ongoing Concerns
As of today, , the situation remains unresolved for many teachers. While a majority of schools have resumed regular classes – with over 90% reportedly back in session as of – some teacher unions continue to protest, seeking resolutions to long-standing demands related to wages and working conditions. The long-term impact of the disciplinary actions and the ongoing dispute on the Panamanian education system remains to be seen.
Verushka Ordás, director of Psychoeducational Services of the Ministry of Education (Meduca), provided details about the complaints for possible disciplinary action, though specific details of those complaints were not released publicly.
