24 SEN Schools Face Closure, CTSP Calls for Urgent Government Action

The Confederation of Public and Private Sector Workers (CTSP) has raised alarms over a severe crisis affecting 24 Special Education Needs (SEN) schools. These schools have not received funding for several months, jeopardizing staff salaries and the quality of education provided to vulnerable children.

Since April, many of these schools—often run by non-governmental organizations—have struggled to pay teachers, maintenance staff, and other employees.

This funding shortfall threatens job security and may lead to layoffs, putting the future of these institutions at risk.

During a peaceful protest outside Parliament in Port Louis on Wednesday 4th June, CTSP leaders criticized opaque management and a lack of political will to address the crisis.

Reeaz Chuttoo, the CTSP president, described the situation as a “systemic crisis” and condemned the absence of effective measures and the proliferation of ineffective technical committees.

The crisis extends beyond salaries. The schools’ pension funds are also under threat due to a lack of financial resources.

The impact on children is particularly concerning, as many with disabilities are already facing neglect or inadequate care.

The situation is urgent, with CTSP demanding immediate government intervention to prevent the collapse of these essential educational services.

If no action is taken by next week, the crisis could worsen, leaving these schools in a state of collapse.

Minister of Gender and Family Wellbeing, Arianne Navarre-Marie, recently visited a SEN school where children were found exhausted and stressed, highlighting the broader social and institutional issues.

The overcrowded classrooms—sometimes with up to 19 students—exacerbate risks of discrimination and marginalization for children with disabilities.

Reeaz Chuttoo also criticized the low wages of educators, many earning below the minimum wage.

He pointed out that a manager earns around Rs 14,000 monthly, which is higher than some teachers.

The union leader blamed the Education Ministry for its inaction and lack of representation at critical meetings.

The situation is worsening, with some classrooms having up to 19 students. This increases the risk of discrimination and marginalization, especially for children with disabilities.

The union leader is calling on citizens to mobilize and urges authorities to take urgent action.

They must ensure the well-being of these children and improve the quality of education they receive.

The government’s failure to address these issues threatens the well-being of both students and staff.

The CTSP is calling for citizens’ mobilization and immediate government intervention to ensure these children receive proper care and quality education.

Source: l’Express