The teachers said much as the teachers are key in the country’s education system, they say their participation in COVID-19 education meetings is too minimal.

“This habit of conducting education stakeholders’ meetings by the ministry of education without inviting the teachers to attend the meetings is uncalled for,” said the teachers.

The teachers who are calling for nationwide demonstrations said a teacher’s voice is crucial in making COVID-19 education recommendations.

But spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Chikondi Chimala, said teachers are represented in the national planning taskforce on reopening of schools through their mother body, Teachers Union of Malawi (TUM).

“Actually am surprised with the claim that the teachers are not fully represented, what type of representation do they want?” wondered Chimala.

According to TUM Secretary General, Charles Kumchenga, discussions are going on well and he is optimism they are leading to re-opening of schools soon.

“COVID-19 education meetings are progressing well and I believe we are driving towards re-opening of schools,” said Kumchenga.