BNTU Claims: “Someone is Targeting the BNTU”

On Wednesday night, over 130 teachers in Belize reported that they have been working without pay, with some waiting for their salaries for over six months. At a press conference held at the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) headquarters, National President Nadia Caliz accused the Ministry of Education of unfairly targeting educators through the Government of Belize’s Smart Stream system.

During the event, teachers Kimberly Lopez and Janelle Cacho recounted their personal struggles. Lopez, who hasn’t received a pay check since May, said, “Imagine saving for your future and having to use that money now.” Cacho echoed this sentiment, stating, “It has caused immense distress, trauma, and inconvenience in my life.”

Both teachers faced complications with the mandatory 120 continuous professional development (CPD) hours needed for license renewal. Lopez explained her frustration with the system, which indicated she had only completed 32 hours despite attending several workshops. Cacho described being unable to teach for months due to her CPD hours and license renewal issues.

Caliz questioned the removals, asking, “Who authorised this? That is the key question, especially when we have a standing agreement.”

Caliz added, “This suggests a serious administrative failure. Someone is targeting the BNTU, using the system against us.” She warned that if conditions do not improve, the BNTU will take further action, declaring, “We cannot accept a situation where teachers show up to work and receive no pay at the end of the month.”