Board of Industrial Training refusing to pay part-time lecturers

Jun 20, 2024 Letters

Dear Editor

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the unethical conduct of the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

This government body, tasked with overseeing and supporting fair labour practices and workforce development, has recently demonstrated behaviour that is both unprofessional and unethical. BIT boasts and publicized widely that 4, 444 individuals graduated in 2023. What is not known to the public is that BIT refused to pay selected lecturers who were responsible for teaching those graduates. BIT has employed numerous tactics indicating that the body will not compensate selected lecturers for work that was satisfactorily completed under its programmes.

These instances of non-payment are not isolated, but rather part of a troubling pattern that undermines the credibility of an institution meant to protect workers’ rights and promote ethical labour standards. What is even more upsetting is that the Contract of the lecturers who were not paid was not renewed for the academic year 2023/2024 and new lecturers were employed.

The Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training is entrusted with the responsibility to lead by example, fostering a just and fair working environment. When this very entity engages in practices that exploit workers, it not only violates the trust placed in it by the public but also sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden other employers to follow suit. Attempts to resolve these issues through proper channels have been met with bureaucratic delays and dismissive responses. Such behaviour is unacceptable, especially from an organization that should be the standard-bearer for labour rights. The affected lecturers many of whom rely on these earnings to help support their families deserve better treatment and timely remuneration.

I call upon higher authorities within the government to investigate these claims thoroughly and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Immediate measures should be implemented to ensure that all owed wages are paid promptly and that such misconduct is not repeated in the future. A resolution to this matter is long overdue since more than a year has elapsed. It is crucial that we maintain the integrity of our labour institutions and ensure that they operate transparently and ethically. The trust of the public and the well-being of our workforce depend on it.

Sincerely,
Frustrated Lecturer

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