THE IMPACT OF THE 2011 PUBLIC SERVICE INDUSTRIAL ACTION IN THE TEACHING AND LEARNING PROGRAMS AT SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BOTSWANA

Abstract

The inclusion of the teaching profession in the Public Service Act No. 30 of 2008, contributed to the strike episodes that impacted negatively on the teaching and learning programs in the education system of Botswana. Interviews and participatory observations were used in this study that sought to investigate the impact of the 2011 industrial action by public servants in Botswana schools. The sample was made up of the Ministry of Education officers, school managers, and teachers. Teachers at the selected schools were observed on their participation during general cleaning programs; the effectiveness of the clocking system; the attendance of class teachers during registration in their assigned classes; the participation of teachers during meal times; the participation of teachers during extra-curricular activities, and the participation of teachers during extra-curricular activities. The empirical investigations reveal that the effects of the strike are still being felt in the education system today. It has been found that teachers’ morale and commitment have significantly lowered due to issues relating to pay and working conditions. This research recommends the School Research Evaluation Vanguard Availability Monitoring and Performance (R.E.V.A.M.P.) Model to improve education at secondary schools and in the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD).
Key words: Teaching, learning, strike, extra-curricular activities